This collaboration aims to establish UF₄ production capabilities in Europe, addressing a critical supply-chain challenge for the global molten salt reactor industry.
-- Copenhagen Atomics, a pioneer in thorium-fueled molten salt reactor technology, and Urenco, a global leader in the supply of uranium enrichment services are collaborating to build a deconversion facility in Copenhagen. The reactor company has also purchased low-enriched uranium (LEU) for its first reactors from Urenco. The current global supply chain is only able to deliver LEU as uranium hexafluoride (UF6), but molten salt reactors require uranium tetrafluoride (UF4).
Therefore, Copenhagen Atomics and Urenco, have signed an MoU to collaborate on the design of a UF6-to-UF4 deconversion facility at Copenhagen Atomics' fuel facility. The UF6 deconversion line is an important part of Copenhagen Atomics ton-scale fuel-salt production facility, the first one in the world.
Copenhagen Atomics has invented a new type of nuclear reactor which has exceptionally better performance than other nuclear reactors. Designed to operate at a lower cost than conventional energy sources, and using significantly less natural resources than other nuclear reactors. These thorium fueled molten salt reactors need UF4 as part of their kick starter fuel. Other molten salt reactors also need UF4 as their base-fuel.
To seed the market and build momentum, Copenhagen Atomics is collaborating with Urenco, an international leader in uranium enrichment. Building on Urenco's extensive UF6 know-how, Copenhagen Atomics will deploy its engineering capabilities to construct and operate a dedicated UF6-to-UF4 deconversion facility in Copenhagen.
Under the agreement, Copenhagen Atomics will source enriched UF6,, convert it into UF4, and synthesize high-purity fuel salts for its own reactors, as well as supply salts to external commercial Molten Salt Reactor (MSR) developers and research institutions.
This combined double milestone, securing key fuel supply and establishing European deconversion capabilities, marks a critical advancement in Copenhagen Atomics' reactor development timeline and supply chain strategy.
“We are very proud that Urenco chose to work with us on this project," said Aslak Stubsgaard, CTO of Copenhagen Atomics. “Establishing this UF4 production line in Copenhagen provides the final missing piece in our supply chain puzzle, enabling full in-house production of reactor-ready fuel salts and supporting the wider advanced nuclear sector.”
“This agreement brings together our respective capabilities to develop a novel fuel solution and establish the supply chain required to support its future deployment." said Dr Iain Roche, Business Development Director at Urenco. "It is exactly the kind of long-term collaboration needed to turn advanced reactor technologies into commercial reality"
About Copenhagen Atomics
At Copenhagen Atomics, we believe civilization advances when energy becomes abundant. Throughout history, every major leap in human progress has been powered by access to more reliable energy - not less.
Since 2014, we’ve been pioneering the development of the world’s lowest-cost energy solution. Our reactor is mass-manufactured to roughly the size of a shipping container, meaning it can be deployed anywhere at scale. We believe this technology can effectively fulfill the massive energy needs mankind will face in the 21st century.
About Urenco
Urenco is an international supplier of uranium enrichment services, fuel cycle products and related solutions with sustainability at the core of our business. Operating in a pivotal area of the nuclear fuel supply chain for over 50 years, Urenco understands the importance of energy security and facilitates the reliable delivery of low carbon electricity generation for consumers around the world.
With its head office in London, UK, Urenco’s global presence ensures diversity and security of supply for customers through enrichment facilities in Germany, the Netherlands, the UK and the USA. Through our technology and the expertise of our people, the Urenco Group provides safe, cost effective and reliable services, operating within a framework of high environmental, social and governance standards, complementing international safeguards.
Media Contact
Copenhagen Atomics Media Relations
Email: [email protected]
Website: copenhagenatomics.com
Urenco Media Relations
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://www.urenco.com/
Contact Info:
Name: Media Relations
Email: Send Email
Organization: Copenhagen Atomics
Website: https://www.copenhagenatomics.com/
Release ID: 89208488
In case of detection of errors, concerns, or irregularities in the content provided in this press release, or if there is a need for a press release takedown, we strongly encourage you to reach out promptly by contacting [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our efficient team will be at your disposal for immediate assistance within 8 hours – resolving identified issues diligently or guiding you through the removal process. We take great pride in delivering reliable and precise information to our valued readers.
