CONUAR has signed a collaboration agreement with Terra Innovatum, developer of the SOLO™ micro modular reactor (SMR/MMR), to advance the industrialization and standardization of manufacturing processes for critical reactor core components.
This initiative addresses one of the key challenges in next-generation nuclear systems: transforming advanced engineering designs into reproducible industrial solutions capable of scaling from First-of-a-Kind (FOAK) units to Nth-of-a-Kind (NOAK) production models, ensuring consistency, traceability, and compliance with nuclear-grade standards.
From Conceptual Engineering to Industrial Production
The agreement includes the development of manufacturing processes for structural and functional components made from zirconium alloys and stainless steels, materials essential for reactor performance that require highly specialized production capabilities.
Within this framework, CONUAR contributes its expertise in:
- Manufacturing under international nuclear standards
- Industrialization of critical materials
- Integration of engineering, manufacturing, and quality control
- Production with full traceability and industrial repeatability
This collaboration will enable progress in constructability analysis and the definition of scalable production methods, effectively bridging the gap between reactor design and real-world manufacturing execution.
Industrial Capabilities Enabling Next-Generation Reactors
Advanced reactor development is entering a phase where supply chain capability becomes a decisive factor for deployment.
In this context, process standardization and the availability of qualified suppliers for strategic materials—such as zirconium alloys—are essential to support large-scale manufacturing.
This agreement reinforces CONUAR’s position as a strategic partner capable of:
- Supporting projects from early-stage engineering
- Translating technical requirements into qualified industrial solutions
- Sustaining production under strict technical and regulatory conditions
Pilot Programs and Manufacturing Validation
As part of the collaboration, pilot programs will be implemented to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of manufacturing key components such as:
- Coolant channel tubes and plates
- Control rod mechanisms
- Fuel assemblies
- Components in stainless steel and specialty alloys
These programs will define production configurations, cost structures, and scalability parameters, laying the groundwork for future industrial supply phases.
Scaling Advanced Nuclear Technologies Globally
This initiative reflects a shared vision between CONUAR and Terra Innovatum: strengthening the industrial capabilities required for the global deployment of SMR technologies.
In a context of increasing energy demand and the need for decarbonization, modular reactors represent a strategic solution. Their success will depend largely on the ability to translate technological innovation into reliable, repeatable, and scalable industrial production.
Through this agreement, CONUAR reinforces its role as a key player in the global nuclear industry, contributing high-value manufacturing solutions for the future of energy.
