Nuclear energy startups are leveraging artificial intelligence to accelerate the development and testing of next-generation nuclear reactors at Texas A&M University. The university’s Nuclear Engineering and Science Center is partnering with private companies to create a first-of-its-kind testing facility that will use AI to simulate and optimize nuclear reactor performance. The facility, expected to be operational by 2025, will allow companies to test their reactor designs more efficiently and cost-effectively than traditional methods. AI algorithms will analyze vast amounts of data from simulated reactor operations, helping to identify potential safety issues, optimize fuel efficiency, and improve overall performance. This innovative approach could significantly reduce the time and cost typically associated with nuclear reactor development, which has historically been a major barrier to widespread adoption of nuclear energy. The project represents a significant step forward in combining AI technology with nuclear engineering to address clean energy challenges. Several startups, including Kairos Power and TerraPower, are already planning to use the facility for testing their advanced reactor designs. The initiative is supported by both federal funding and private investment, highlighting the growing interest in AI-assisted nuclear technology development. The project’s success could pave the way for faster deployment of safer, more efficient nuclear reactors, contributing to the transition to clean energy sources while maintaining grid reliability.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/nuclear-startups-test-clean-power-ai-texas-a-and-m-2025-2