Deep Isolation’s Project PUCK has demonstrated the feasibility and potential commercial readiness of its UCS to manage TRISO spent nuclear fuel
Launched in July 2024 under a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), Project PUCK assessed the UCS’s capability to handle TRISO fuel through deep borehole disposal. The UCS is a triple-purpose canister system designed for safe storage, transportation, and permanent disposal of used nuclear fuel and high-level radioactive waste. The system is engineered for compatibility with both deep borehole and mined geological repositories, offering flexibility in disposal strategies.
Project results confirmed that TRISO fuel can be safely managed using UCS and is suitable for deep borehole disposal, which is noted for its enhanced safety profile and minimal surface footprint. The initiative also included a detailed economic evaluation, which highlighted potential cost advantages and identified areas for further design optimization to support broader industry use.
Jesse Sloane, Executive Vice President of Deep Isolation, stated: “What we’ve accomplished with Kairos Power is more than a technical milestone – it’s a strategic leap toward long-term sustainability in nuclear energy. The UCS, paired with deep borehole disposal, offers an adaptable and forward‑thinking end-to-end solution that can serve the advanced reactor industry for the future.”
The analysis from Project PUCK provides a foundation for stakeholders seeking practical and economically viable solutions for back-end fuel cycle management. Deep Isolation emphasized that the UCS, combined with deep borehole disposal, is not only technically feasible but also commercially ready for use with TRISO fuel.
Kairos Power’s Chief Nuclear Officer, Per Peterson, expressed continued support for the partnership: “Together, Deep Isolation and Kairos Power are setting a precedent for innovation, safety, and sustainability in the safe and effective management of spent fuel from high temperature reactors.”
With the completion of Project PUCK, Deep Isolation aims to expand the application of its UCS to support the evolving needs of the advanced reactor market and contribute to long-term solutions for nuclear waste management. The initiative marks progress toward sustainable nuclear energy infrastructure and highlights the role of innovative technologies in addressing future energy challenges.
