Grant: Canada Research Chairs

During the second term of the Tier 2 CRC in Nuclear Fuels and Materials, Dr. Piro and his team will perform research to achieve the following objectives: i) enable the enhancement of performance and safety of conventional and advanced nuclear fuels along with the environmentally responsible disposition of nuclear fuel waste; ii) explore innovative research approaches through advanced techniques; and iii) foster a state-of-the-art academic program to facilitate the training of highly qualified personnel for employment in the Canadian nuclear industry. The foregoing objectives will be achieved through advanced modelling and simulation techniques conducted in parallel with a concerted experimental program. Computational research will include the development and execution of state-of-the-art software, including multi-physics code development, supported by high performance computing. Experimental research will involve a variety of materials science techniques, including the use of an inert atmosphere glovebox, thermogravimetric analyzer, differential scanning calorimeter, and x-ray diffractometer. This research will be strengthened via ongoing partnerships with national laboratories in Canada, the US, and Europe. Furthermore, students will have experiential learning opportunities, including internships at Canadian and international partners. The CRC program is expected to generate innovative and unique techniques, including novel computational multi-physics capabilities that will be aimed at nuclear fuels, but could equally be applied to other sectors. Similarly, novel experimental techniques are expected to be developed, such as purification procedures of molten salt chemistry for advanced Small Modular Reactors (SMR). The anticipated significance of the work is knowledge and technology transfer to industry and government stakeholders, particularly in regards to the deployment and operation of SMRs. The benefit to Canada is the continued support of economical, reliable, and safe operation of nuclear generating stations and emerging nuclear technologies.