Luleå University of Technology at the forefront of future nuclear technology

Luleå University of Technology is a key player in three research projects focusing on small modular reactors and new nuclear power technology. The projects, NuMaP, LESTO and SUNRISE, will contribute to the development of safer, more environmentally friendly and more efficient nuclear power solutions – a crucial part of Sweden's transition to fossil-free energy.

Luleå University of Technology plays a prominent role in Swedish nuclear power research. Through its participation in three international and national projects—NuMaP, LESTO, and SUNRISE—the university contributes to the development of next-generation nuclear power technologies. Focusing on material development, simulation-based testing methods, and manufacturing techniques, the projects address both Swedish and global energy challenges.

Building competence for a fossil-free society

NuMaP, the Nuclear Materials Platform, is a national project bringing together researchers and industry partners across Sweden to address major challenges in nuclear power. With material science as its foundation, the goal is to ensure efficiency, safety, and sustainability in current and future reactors. Luleå University of Technology is one of the leading partners, collaborating with universities (KTH, Uppsala, Chalmers, and Linköping), institutes (Swerim), and industry (Westinghouse and Blykalla).

"Materials are the key to safety and efficiency in reactors. NuMaP strengthens Swedish research and innovation and helps us build the competence needed for a fossil-free society," says Jens Hardell, Professor of Machine Elements at Luleå University of Technology.

Another of the three projects is LESTO, Lead Fast Reactor Safety Design and Tools, an EU-funded collaboration aiming to develop lead-cooled reactors. This technology has garnered significant interest for its advanced safety features and potential to meet modern safety standards. Luleå University of Technology contributes with research on materials and safety systems. The project involves 20 partners from 10 countries, including Sweden, and is coordinated by the Italian energy research institute ENEA.

"This type of reactor can revolutionize nuclear safety. With their passive safety systems, they are less susceptible to human error and external stressors," says Jens Hardell.

Addressing Future Energy Needs

SUNRISE, Sustainable Nuclear Energy Research In Sweden, focuses on developing a lead-cooled research and demonstration reactor planned for construction in Oskarshamn. The project involves extensive work on design, safety analyses, and material development. This is one of the first significant steps toward implementing lead-cooled nuclear technology in Sweden, conducted in collaboration with KTH and Uppsala University.

The projects NuMaP, LESTO, and SUNRISE highlight the extensive expertise and capabilities of Luleå University of Technology. By combining fundamental research and industrial collaborations, the university tackles some of the most pressing issues in the energy sector.

"We see an increased need for collaboration between research, industry, and society. These projects are examples of how we can address future energy needs sustainably," concludes Jens Hardell.

• Machine elements
• Engineering Materials