US nuclear firms partner on fuel recycling and lead‑cooled reactor development

Advanced nuclear recycling firm Curio has signed a memorandum of understanding with NuScale Power and Framatome to assess how recovered materials from used fuel can support future fuel and product streams. The partners will evaluate source‑to‑product pathways using Curio’s NuCycle technology, conduct technical and supply‑chain studies, and explore commercial agreements that could strengthen domestic and international nuclear fuel supply chains and enhance energy‑security goals.

Separately, nuclear‑technology company newcleo submitted a Regulatory Engagement Plan to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission for a lead‑cooled fast reactor (LFR‑AS‑200) and an associated mixed‑oxide (MOX) fuel‑recycling plant. The filing aims to create a complete domestic fuel loop, producing MOX fuel from reprocessed plutonium and depleted uranium, reducing long‑term waste radiotoxicity and reliance on fresh uranium mining. The lead‑cooled reactor is designed for 200 MW output and operates at temperatures above 1,700 °F, offering safety advantages over conventional water‑cooled designs.