Lightbridge Successfully Co-Extrudes a Demonstration Coupon Sample with Uranium-Zirconium Alloy and Cladding

Core Viewpoint - Lightbridge Corporation has achieved a significant milestone in advanced nuclear fuel technology by successfully demonstrating a co-extrusion process for a uranium-zirconium alloy at Idaho National Laboratory, moving closer to the commercialization of its Lightbridge Fuel™ product designed to enhance reactor safety and performance [1][2][8] Group 1: Co-Extrusion Process - The co-extrusion demonstration involved pressing a metallic alloy billet encased in zirconium alloy cladding to produce an 8-foot cylindrical rod [3][6] - This process represents a key fabrication milestone under a Strategic Partnership Project Agreement with Battelle Energy Alliance LLC, the U.S. Department of Energy's contractor for INL [5][11] - The uranium-zirconium alloy used in the demonstration is the same composition planned for future commercial Lightbridge Fuel™ products [6] Group 2: Future Development and Testing - Lightbridge and INL will analyze the co-extruded sample to confirm extrusion process parameters, paving the way for future production using enriched uranium [7] - Planned capsule irradiation testing in INL's Advanced Test Reactor aims to generate critical performance data for Lightbridge's advanced fuel and support regulatory licensing efforts [7] - The successful demonstration is seen as a testament to the collaboration and innovation driving the advancement of Lightbridge Fuel, with a focus on enhancing safety, efficiency, and performance [8][10] Group 3: Company Background and Goals - Lightbridge Corporation is focused on developing advanced nuclear fuel technology essential for delivering clean energy and energy security [10] - The company is developing Lightbridge Fuel™ for existing light water reactors and new small modular reactors (SMRs), aiming to enhance reactor safety and economics [10][11] - Lightbridge has entered into long-term agreements with Battelle Energy Alliance and has received support from the DOE's Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear program [11]