In the quest to maximize the utility of spent nuclear fuel and minimize waste, researchers at the China Institute of Atomic Energy have made significant strides in advancing both hydrometallurgical and pyrochemical reprocessing technologies. Their work, recently published in the journal *Nuclear Power Engineering Technology*, offers a roadmap for enhancing the efficiency and safety of nuclear fuel recycling, with profound implications for the global energy sector.
At the heart of the research lies the Purex process, a well-established hydrometallurgical method for separating plutonium and uranium from spent fuel. However, as lead author Dr. Zhang Hu explains, “While the Purex process has achieved industrial-scale success, it faces challenges in processing high-burnup fuels and minimizing waste.” To address these issues, the team has proposed an innovative Advanced Salt-Free Two-Cycle Process (APOR), which employs dimethylhydroxylamine as a reductant to improve plutonium separation efficiency and safety.
On the pyrochemical front, the researchers have developed a technical route based on molten salt electrolysis, which offers advantages such as high radiation tolerance and compatibility with metallic fuels for fast reactors. This method has reached Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 7, with successful demonstrations in electrolytic separation of uranium and plutonium, distillation purification, and waste salt treatment.
The implications for the energy sector are substantial. As Dr. Lin Rushan, a co-author of the study, notes, “These advancements will provide robust support for China’s three-step nuclear energy strategy, encompassing thermal reactors, fast reactors, and fusion reactors.” By improving the adaptability of these technologies to high-burnup fuels and promoting the engineering application of the APOR process, the research paves the way for more efficient and sustainable nuclear energy production.
Moreover, the team’s exploration of artificial intelligence in process optimization holds promise for further enhancing the commercial viability of nuclear fuel recycling. As the global push for clean energy intensifies, these innovations could play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the nuclear industry.
Published in *Nuclear Power Engineering Technology*, the research underscores the critical role of advanced spent nuclear fuel reprocessing technologies in driving the energy transition. By addressing the technical challenges and future development trends outlined in the study, the nuclear sector can unlock new opportunities for growth and innovation, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable energy landscape.