OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) Scientific Activities on Advanced Fuel Cycles

The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) advances the development of advanced nuclear fuel cycles through its Working Party on Scientific Issues of Advanced Fuel Cycles (WPFC).Comprised of four expert groups, the WPFC focuses on fuel cycle scenarios, fuel recycling, innovative fuels, and reactor coolant technology.These efforts address sustainability, safety, non-proliferation, and economic challenges associated with advanced fuel cycles and technologies.Key initiatives include benchmarking studies, data preservation, and support of Gen-IV reactor technologies.Recent WPFC activities include workshops and publications on Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs) fuel cycles, partitioning and transmutation (P&T) techniques, and assessment of advanced fuel properties.Expert groups also explore separation technologies, innovative fuel types, coolant impacts on reactor components, and advanced fuel cycle scenarios.These initiatives support global efforts, such as the commitment by over 20 countries at COP28 to triple nuclear capacity, ensuring efficient resource use and waste management.The WPFC's work underscores the role of advanced fuel cycles in meeting future energy demands.