NRC Approves KRONOS Microreactor Fuel Methodology at University of Illinois

Nano Nuclear Energy has received approval from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for its Fuel Qualification Methodology, a key step toward deploying the KRONOS microreactor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. This approval confirms the safety and effectiveness of the Fully Ceramic Microencapsulated (FCM) fuel, which uses tri-structural isotropic (TRISO) particles embedded in a silicon carbide matrix, designed for enhanced safety and efficiency. The regulatory milestone allows Nano Nuclear to move forward with submitting a construction permit application for what is expected to be the first advanced microreactor on a U.S. university campus. The project aims to provide clean, resilient energy to the university while serving as a platform for research and training, with both company and university leaders highlighting the significance of the NRC's decision in reducing project uncertainty. The achievement marks a transformative moment for advanced nuclear energy and sets a regulatory pathway for similar future technologies. Nano Nuclear now plans to finalize fuel fabrication timelines and begin early site preparation activities.