BWX Technologies (BWXT) has successfully received the first shipment of TRISO (Tristructural-isotropic) nuclear fuel, marking a critical step in the deployment of next-generation nuclear reactors. The milestone strengthens BWXT’s role in the U.S. clean energy transition and signals progress in domestic advanced nuclear fuel supply chains.
- BWX Technologies received the first batch of TRISO nuclear fuel at its Lynchburg, Virginia facility.
- The initial shipment includes 1,200 fuel particles with 19.75% uranium-235 enrichment.
- TRISO fuel is designed for use in high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs) and small modular reactors (SMRs).
- The delivery supports U.S. initiatives under the Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program.
- BWXT shares rose 4.3% following the announcement, reflecting increased investor confidence in advanced nuclear energy.
- The milestone enhances domestic supply chain resilience for next-generation nuclear fuel.
BWX Technologies (BWXT) has confirmed the arrival of the first batch of TRISO nuclear fuel at its facility in Lynchburg, Virginia, a pivotal development in the company’s advanced reactor fuel program. The fuel, produced under a partnership with a U.S.-based materials manufacturer, is designed for use in high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGRs), a class of advanced nuclear systems expected to play a key role in decarbonizing industrial and electric power sectors by 2030. TRISO fuel features a unique multi-layered coating that enhances safety by containing radioactive material even under extreme temperatures and pressure conditions. The delivery marks the first physical transfer of TRISO fuel into BWXT’s production and testing infrastructure, following years of research, regulatory engagement, and pilot-scale manufacturing. The company has reported that the initial batch includes 1,200 fuel particles, each measuring approximately 0.9 millimeters in diameter, with a uranium-235 enrichment level of 19.75%. This configuration meets the design specifications for small modular reactors (SMRs) under development by several U.S. energy firms, including X-energy and Southern Company. Market analysts note that the successful fuel delivery could accelerate licensing timelines for commercial HTGR deployments. With the U.S. Department of Energy allocating $1.2 billion in funding for advanced reactor projects in 2024, BWXT’s progress positions the company as a key player in the domestic nuclear fuel supply chain. The milestone also supports broader energy security goals, reducing reliance on foreign fuel sources and enabling faster adoption of low-carbon baseload power. Investors have responded positively, with BWXT shares rising 4.3% in early trading on the announcement. The development is expected to benefit related industrial suppliers and engineering firms involved in reactor design and construction, particularly those participating in the DOE’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program.