McMaster University, one of Canada’s premier research institutions, just announced an exciting collaborative research partnership with Westinghouse Electric Company. Collectively they will accelerate the deployment of the eVinci microreactor. This partnership will leverage McMaster’s deep bench of expertise in nuclear research. It will leverage their world-class facilities to accelerate the promise of microreactor technology.
World famous for McMaster University’s expertise in nuclear science, the university powers a multi-purpose facility, the McMaster nuclear reactor. This reactor is essential for the production of medical isotopes and supporting many other scientific research missions. It can produce electricity from a few kilowatts up to 5 megawatts (MW). Further, it could operate continuously for more than eight years without ever having to be refueled!
McMaster University has decades of expertise operating its research reactor safely. This specialization has provided relevant experience and perspective that will significantly enhance Westinghouse’s eVinci microreactor program. This new agreement provides both organizations with the opportunity to pursue innovative, collaborative approaches in nuclear technology to address critical challenges safely and sustainably.
The McMaster nuclear reactor boasts an outstanding set of nuclear-related facilities. With the right policies and investment, these facilities will be key to driving down costs and accelerating R&D efforts. McMaster has been conducting a systematic literature review focused on reviewing and analyzing material properties. They have produced several material handbooks that will inform engineering design and future testing needs within this collaboration.
Moreover, a recently announced development at McMaster University will significantly improve and expand Canadian reactor testing capabilities with the introduction of a high-temperature irradiated test rig. This progress is seen as a way to continue facilitating innovative research and development related to the eVinci microreactor project.
“We’re proud to partner with Westinghouse and contribute our research expertise and world-class suite of nuclear facilities in support of their eVinci microreactor programme.” – Andy Knights, McMaster acting vice-president of research
The joint effort of McMaster University and Westinghouse represents a powerful partnership in the shared mission of expanding nuclear technology. Only together in this partnership can we bring the best of both parties’ strengths to bear on realizing quick commercialization and deployment of the eVinci microreactor.
“McMaster University is a strong Canadian research partner, offering years of valuable experience and insights from operating its research reactor that can be applied to our microreactor technology. By broadening our collaboration and leveraging McMaster’s unique capabilities, we can further accelerate the commercialisation of our eVinci microreactor.” – Jon Ball, Westinghouse eVinci technologies president
