NANO Nuclear Will Adapt Micronuclear to Power Space Applications

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NANO Nuclear Space (NNS) will focus on optimizing “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, for applications such as power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

Innovative technologies, like the Annular Linear Induction Pump (ALIP) technology developed by Carlos O. Maidana, Ph.D., which was recently acquired by NANO Nuclear, will be leveraged to optimize cooling and heat transfer capabilities and address challenges in high-efficiency thermal fluid management in high temperature applications, including energy generation and even propulsion.

ALIP Technology Overview
ALIPs are electromagnetic pumps that allow the safe use of molten salts and liquid metals as working fluids in high-temperature applications, particularly in the energy, propulsion, and industrial sectors. These pumps operate at temperatures exceeding 850°C (1123 K), enabling higher-efficiency energy conversion cycle.

Development History
From 2008 to 2010, Dr. Maidana was heavily involved in ALIP development at Idaho National Laboratory as part of a joint NASA/DoE project focused on the Fission Surface Power Technology Project. His work was crucial in reviving and advancing ALIP technology in the United States after decades of limited progress

Key Features and Advantages

No moving parts, leading to higher reliability and reduced maintenance requirements
Compact form factor
Ability to operate at high temperatures (550°C using NaK78 in initial designs, later exceeding 1123 K)
Improved efficiency in energy conversion cycles1
Enhanced passive decay heat removal capability using natural circulation3

Recent Developments

Dr. Maidana created the first software and computational tools worldwide for the multiphysics analysis of ALIPs

Since 2015, he has secured several DoE SBIR awards totaling $1.37 million to support this work

In June 2024, NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. acquired the ALIP technology from Dr. Maidana

NANO Nuclear is funding and overseeing an SBIR Phase III project to further develop the ALIP technology, with Dr. Maidana as the Principal Investigator.

Applications
The ALIP technology is particularly relevant for:

NANO Nuclear’s ‘ODIN’ microreactor
Advanced nuclear reactor designs, especially liquid metal and molten salt-based reactors
Space nuclear systems, including nuclear propulsion and power generation technologies

Ongoing Research
Current efforts focus on enhancing thermal management systems through the development of advanced electromagnetic pump solutions. This approach integrates innovative software, robust hardware designs, and optimized manufacturing processes. The ALIP technology developed by Dr. Maidana represents a significant advancement in nuclear reactor cooling and heat transfer systems, with potential applications in both terrestrial and space-based nuclear power generation.

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