A State-of-the-Art Review on Nuclear Reactor Concepts and Associated Advanced Manufacturing Techniques

Lisa May () and Martin Werz
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Lisa May: Materials Testing Institute, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 32, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany
Martin Werz: Materials Testing Institute, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 32, 70569 Stuttgart, Germany

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 16, 1-36

Abstract: The political commitment to reaching carbon-free energy generation by the year 2050 has led to an increased expansion of renewable energy power plants. As renewable energy generation is intermittent and current energy storage options are limited, a diversified energy grid including nuclear power is the preferable choice for most nations. Many innovative reactor concepts are being pursued in research and development, aiming to supplement fluctuating energy sources. However, it is yet unclear if these technologies can be economically deployed in time. This paper presents the current political views and events concerning the global expansion of nuclear energy, focusing on Europe and the USA. Further, the most important safety aspects of large nuclear power plants are discussed. Moreover, knowledge and definition gaps regarding the applicability of established procedures for innovative reactor concepts are included. The authors highlight that advanced manufacturing techniques play a key role in the economic and technical realization of innovative reactor concepts. The present work is intended to provide insight into current developments in nuclear technology while providing more detail on safety aspects and innovative manufacturing methods.

Keywords: nuclear energy; Generation IV reactors; small modular reactors; net-zero; state-of-the art review; advanced manufacturing techniques; nuclear safety (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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