The Development of SHINE Technology’s Used Nuclear Fuel (UNF) Recycling Program

SPEAKER: Ross Radel, PhD, PE DATE/TIME: MON, 10/28/2024 – 3:00PM TO 4:00PM LOCATION: 3105 ETCHEVERRY HALL

Abstract:

SHINE Technologies, LLC (SHINE) is leading a venture to address the nation’s UNF disposal challenge by developing a game-changing set of interlinked technologies that reduce the environmental impact of nuclear energy generation through the recycling and transmutation of UNF. This approach will reduce the longevity and long-term radiotoxicity of high-level waste, will improve reprocessing economics via value-added isotope extraction, and will advance technologies to enable fusion energy generation. SHINE is leveraging design, construction, and operational experience gained from commercializing its medical isotope (Mo-99) production facility to design an end-to-end UNF processing, recycling, and transmutation system. Dr. Ross Radel, SHINE’s Chief Technology Officer, will discuss SHINE’s UNF recycling program and the related technologies that have paved SHINE’s pathway to this project.

Bio:

Dr. Radel has served as SHINE’s Chief Technology Officer since April 2021. He has over 20 years of R&D experience on a variety of fusion, fission, and particle accelerator technologies that are directly applicable to SHINE’s core technologies and is licensed as a Professional Engineer. From 2011 to 2021, Dr. Radel served as the CEO and Board Member of Phoenix Nuclear Labs where he led dozens of technical projects related to neutron generation and neutron-based detection methods. Prior to joining Phoenix, he served as a Senior Member of the Technical Staff at Sandia National Laboratories where he worked to develop space nuclear power systems. Dr. Radel holds a Ph.D. in nuclear engineering from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where his research focused on high-flux fusion neutron generation for detecting clandestine materials such as HEU.