We develop advanced inorganic materials for use in nuclear safety systems, including radiation shielding, core catchers, and long-term waste repositories. Our materials are designed for extreme conditions and are already being transferred to industrial partners.
Contact person: Zbyněk Černý
Advanced Materials for a Demanding Industry
Ensuring the safety of nuclear power generation requires highly durable, chemically stable, and radiation-resistant materials. Our team focuses on developing and optimizing specialized inorganic composites to serve multiple roles in nuclear safety infrastructure—from passive radiation protection to accident mitigation.
Core Catcher Composites for Severe Accident Scenarios
In the event of a nuclear reactor core meltdown, containment is critical. We have developed geopolymer-based composites that act as sacrificial materials in so-called core catcher systems. These composites are formulated from:
• Powdered oxides and calcium phosphates,
• Optimized for thermal resistance, chemical inertness, and corium immobilization.
These materials can withstand extreme temperatures and intense chemical exposure, making them suitable for emergency containment scenarios such as those faced during severe reactor accidents.
Radiation-Shielding Concrete for Reactors and Repositories
Our research also includes the development of low-alkaline concrete for use in deep geological repositories for nuclear waste. These formulations:
• Limit the release of aggressive alkaline species,
• Provide long-term structural and chemical stability,
• Are designed for minimal interaction with surrounding materials and groundwater.
For active reactor environments—including small modular reactors (SMRs)—we have formulated geopolymer concretes with:
• Neutron moderation properties,
• Gamma radiation shielding,
• Compatibility with modular reactor design constraints.
Collaboration and Technology Transfer
These developments are the result of active collaborations with key players in the Czech nuclear industry, including:
- Research Centre Řež,
- Škoda JS.
Several materials are currently in technology transfer for further development and future implementation in new reactor systems and radioactive waste management strategies.
SUMMARY:
✅ Materials for core catchers and radiation shielding
✅ Based on geopolymer and oxide-phosphate formulations
✅ High thermal and chemical stability
✅ Suitable for SMRs and final waste repositories
✅ Low-alkaline and environmentally compliant
✅ Industry collaboration and technology transfer ongoing