Radiant Industries, Amsted Graphite Materials Ink Pact for US Nuclear Energy Supply

Radiant Industries, Incorporated, and Amsted Graphite Materials LLC have forged a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to bolster the domestic supply chain for nuclear-grade graphite. Commencing on May 21, 2024, this MOU underscores a strategic partnership between two industry frontrunners dedicated to propelling clean energy technology forward within the United States.

In light of their enhanced collaboration, Radiant has issued a substantial purchase order to Amsted Graphite Materials for its PCEA™ nuclear-grade graphite. This procurement is intended to bolster Radiant's efforts in developing their Kaleidos microreactor, poised to become the world's inaugural portable, zero-emissions power source catering to remote areas.

Radiant has been chosen as one of three pioneering developers in advanced nuclear energy to secure funding from the U.S. Department of Energy. Their objective is to design and assess microreactor prototypes within the Demonstration of Microreactor Experiments (DOME) test bed located at Idaho National Laboratory. Radiant's Kaleidos microreactor is designed to incorporate a graphite core and meltdown-proof TRISO fuel, aiming for a targeted power output of 1 MW over three years. Commencing testing in 2026, Radiant envisions the production of commercial units by 2028 following successful trials.

The outcome of Radiant's Kaleidos Demonstration Project, as well as the feasibility of subsequent commercial endeavors, hinges significantly on the assurance and affordability of nuclear-grade, medium, and fine grain graphite essential for use in a nuclear setting.

Tori Shivanandan, Radiant's Chief Operating Officer, expressed enthusiasm about cementing the strategic partnership with Amsted Graphite Materials. "By collaborating to ensure a dependable supply of essential graphite materials, we are not only supporting the success of our Kaleidos Demonstration Project but also establishing a strong groundwork for the future of clean energy in the US."

Amsted Graphite Materials, a prominent figure in graphite material science with a rich history spanning over a century in the carbon and graphite sector, holds the distinction of being the largest U.S.-owned synthetic graphite producer. As a subsidiary of the Chicago-headquartered diversified manufacturing conglomerate Amsted Industries, the company benefits from a solid foundation and ample resources, enabling ongoing investments in the research and development of graphite materials.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) highlights the shared dedication of Radiant and Amsted Graphite Materials to diminish dependence on foreign suppliers of nuclear-grade graphite, amplify U.S. advanced manufacturing capacities, and reinforce the security of U.S. nuclear energy supply chains. Key objectives outlined in the MOU encompass collaborative initiatives in policy advocacy across federal, state, and local levels, strategic dialogues with external entities, exploration of public-private partnerships with the U.S. government, and engagement in testing and research and development programs with universities and government laboratories.

Gavin Noel, Vice President and General Manager of Amsted Graphite Materials, emphasized the importance of the collaboration with Radiant in bolstering America's nuclear energy infrastructure. "As the US progresses towards a cleaner and more resilient energy future, Amsted Graphite Materials  partnership underscores the critical role of graphite in ensuring the security and sustainability of innovative technologies."