Challenge Statement - Treatment of nitrogen oxides.pdf

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The challengeWet scrubbing is currently used to manage NOx generated by fuel recycling in the UK. This technique predominantly uses water, weak nitric acid or sodium hydroxide (NaOH) caustic scrubbing. It is a well-established technique, but significant quantities of liquid effluent are generated. While effluents from water scrubbing can be partly reused as weak nitric acid solution, caustic effluents cannot be reused and the nitrate containing liquor is discharged to sea.Scrubbing performance on the UK’s most recent recycling plant meets regulatory requirements, but improvements are desired for future plants.NNL are seeking an alternative to wet scrubbing for the abatement of NOx to:<ul><li>Reduce the discharge of NOx</li><li>Reduce or eliminate the liquid effluent generated</li><li>Reduce or eliminate the discharge of nitrate compounds to sea</li></ul>Open callApplications are invited for technological solutions to meet this challenge.Funding is available for feasibility and proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;challenge statement&nbsp;for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions NNL are seeking.Interactive workshopWatch our workshop recording to learn more about this challenge, the Game Changers process and how to apply<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/519902723/"></iframe>Please note that specific IP arrangements are in place for funding applications made to Game Changers for AFCP challenges. More information can be found in our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Game%20Changers%20FAQs%203.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Funding FAQs document</a>.

Treatment of nitrogen oxides from nuclear fuel recycling off-gases

The Advanced Fuel Cycle Programme (AFCP) is part of the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy’s £505m Energy Innovation Programme. AFCP is led in partnership with the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) who are collaborating with leading industrial, academic and research institutions to investigate the role of advanced nuclear fuels and fuel cycles for a Net Zero greenhouse gas emission future.A central theme of AFCP is advanced recycling and sustainability. Sustainable fuel cycles must take into consideration atmospheric effects and technical options are being developed by NNL to minimise the environmental impact of advanced recycling.

Through the Advanced Fuel Cycle Programme (AFCP), NNL is seeking an alternative to wet scrubbing for the abatement of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from nuclear fuel recycling off-gases.

Challenge Statement - Shape sorting of coated particle fuel.pdf

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The challengeA novel solution is sought to the quality assurance processes that separate misshapen kernel and coated fuel particles from those that are perfectly spherical. The kernels are uranium dioxide and typically 500 μm in diameter, and the coated fuel particles have an approximate diameter of 1 mm. The key attributes of the solution will be the accuracy of the separation process and the throughput.Open callApplications are invited for technological solutions to meet this challenge.Funding is available for feasibility and proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;challenge statement&nbsp;for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions NNL are seeking.Interactive workshopWatch our workshop recording to learn more about this challenge, the Game Changers process and how to apply<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/520958524/"></iframe> Please note that specific IP arrangements are in place for funding applications made to Game Changers for AFCP challenges. More information can be found in our <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Game%20Changers%20FAQs%203.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Funding FAQs document</a>.

Shape sorting of coated particle fuel

The Advanced Fuel Cycle Programme (AFCP) is part of the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy’s £505m Energy Innovation Programme. AFCP is led in partnership with the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) who are collaborating with leading industrial, academic and research institutions to investigate the role of advanced nuclear fuels and fuel cycles for a Net Zero greenhouse gas emission future.Coated particle fuels are a potential advanced fuel technology consisting of a fuel kernel encapsulated within multiple layers of ceramic, typically silicon carbide and pyrolytic carbon.

Through the Advanced Fuel Cycle Programme, NNL are seeking a novel solution for the quality assurance processes that separate misshapen kernel and coated fuel particles from those that are perfectly spherical.

Challenge statement - Controlling oxygen and moisture levels in salts.pdf

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The challengeIt is imperative for the success of pyrochemical processing that oxygen and moisture levels in the system are tightly controlled. The ability to maintain low oxygen and moisture content during pyrochemical processing would be game-changing for both the choice of construction material for vessels and for process control.The aim of this challenge is to identify and implement a novel, or pre-existing, method to control levels of oxygen and water during pyrochemical processing. Achieving this aim would reduce construction costs, improve operability and increase plant life expectancy, thereby reducing operator exposure to radiation and environmental impact.Open callApplications are invited for technological solutions to meet this challenge.Funding is available for feasibility and proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;challenge statement&nbsp;for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions NNL are seeking.Interactive workshopWatch our workshop recording to learn more about this challenge, the Game Changers process and how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/520984500/"></iframe> Please note that specific IP arrangements are in place for funding applications made to Game Changers for AFCP challenges. More information can be found in our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Game%20Changers%20FAQs%203.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Funding FAQs document</a>.

Controlling oxygen and moisture levels in salts

The Advanced Fuel Cycle Programme (AFCP) is part of the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy’s £505m Energy Innovation Programme. AFCP is led in partnership with the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) who are collaborating with leading industrial, academic and research institutions to investigate the role of advanced nuclear fuels and fuel cycles for a Net Zero greenhouse gas emission future.Through AFCP, NNL is developing a technology for the recycling and refining of nuclear fuels based on pyrochemical processing. This approach has benefits that make it an important candidate for the recycling of nuclear fuels for the next generation of nuclear reactors.

Through the Advanced Fuel Cycle Programme, NNL is seeking to identify and implement a novel or pre-existing method to control levels of oxygen and water during pyrochemical processing.

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a general challenge

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General application

If you think that you have an idea which might be of interest to any of our partners, please submit an application to tell us more.You can get learn about research areas which are of particular interest by reading our <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/partners" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">partner pages</a>.Information about the <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/projects" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">projects</a> we're currently funding should also help you to decide whether your technology might have application at Sellafield, NNL or Dounreay.In addition, you might like to read some of the historic challenge statements published on our site.If you'd like to explore your idea with us before submitting an application, please get in touch.

Applications for the Game Changers scheme are always welcome for any project or technology which could support nuclear innovation. If you have an idea which you think might be of interest to Sellafield, NNL or Dounreay we'd love to hear from you.

Removal of contaminated concrete challenge statement.pdf

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Open callApplications are invited for technological solutions to meet this challenge.Funding is available for feasibility and proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;challenge statement&nbsp;for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions Sellafield and Dounreay are seeking.An interactive workshop took place on 8th December 2020. A recording of this session is available to watch where you can hear from some of the challenge owners.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/490744550/"></iframe>You might also be interested in recordings of separate Sellafield and Dounreay Q &amp; A sessions.Sellafield:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/490881187/"></iframe>Dounreay:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/490899560/"></iframe>How to applyIf you think you can solve all or part of this challenge, please submit a funding application using our online application form.&nbsp;Guidance notes are available using the help buttons in the form.Please note that you must submit a&nbsp;poster as part of your application.&nbsp;You can save your application form as you complete it and return to it at a later time.The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Thursday 7th January 2021.

Removal of contaminated concrete from ponds

Challenge deadline 12 noon, 7th January 2021Across the Sellafield and Dounreay sites there are several ponds that require their concrete walls and floors to be remediated prior to final decommissioning and demolition.&nbsp;Sellafield Ltd and Dounreay are now seeking novel solutions or improvements to existing processes to decommission some of these ponds with two specific opportunities available.Both organisations have similar pond designs and are collaborating via the Game Changers process.&nbsp;This call for innovation is open to applicants from any sector including industries such as oil and gas, mineral mining, chemicals, civil engineering and construction. Sellafield Ltd and Dounreay are seeking a proof of concept capable of deployment as soon as practicably possible.

Sellafield Ltd and Dounreay are seeking novel solutions or improvements to existing processes to remove concrete floors and walls from contaminated ponds

Detection of organics in pipes and vessels challenge statement.pdf

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Open callApplications are invited for technological solutions to meet this challenge.Funding is available for feasibility and proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;challenge statement&nbsp;for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions Sellafield Ltd and Dounreay are seeking.An&nbsp;interactive workshop&nbsp;took place on 9th December 2020. You can watch the recording below to learn more about the challenge, hear from some of the challenge owners and listen to a Q &amp; A session.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/490728407/"></iframe>How to applyIf you think you can solve all or part of this challenge, please submit a funding application using our online application form.&nbsp;Guidance notes are available using the help buttons in the form.Please note that you must submit a&nbsp;poster as part of your application.&nbsp;You can save your application form as you complete it and return to it at a later time.The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Thursday 7th January 2021.

Detection of organics in pipes and vessels

Challenge deadline 12 noon, 7th January 2021Nuclear site facilities go through a full cleaning process at the end of their operational life to reduce risks and hazards and, in turn, make the plant cheaper to care for and dismantle. Residual or bulk organics in vessels and pipework may lead to issues during decommissioning, for example presenting fire hazards during cutting operations of stainless-steel pipework when reducing their size.The challengeSellafield Ltd (SL) and Dounreay Site Restoration Limited (DSRL) are seeking ideas, innovations and technologies that will deliver game-changing improvements over the current techniques used for the&nbsp;characterisation of organic residues to confirm that they have been removed to an acceptable level&nbsp;in reprocessing vessels and pipework.

Sellafield Ltd and Dounreay are seeking innovative vessel and pipework organic residue characterisation techniques

Reduction of secondary waste challenge statement.pdf

NNL are seeking novel cleaning methods to extend the operational life of solvents and extractants employed during nuclear reprocessing to recover valuable re-useable plutonium (Pu) and uranium (U) from spent nuclear fuel.During their use, the solvents and extractants degrade and become contaminated. This can compromise the performance of reprocessing plants and necessitates the disposal of solvent and extractant as waste.Cleaning of the solvents and extractants to remove radioactivity and degradation products can be used to extend their operational life and reduces the production of waste solvent.NNL are seeking alternative safe and efficient cleaning methods that retain the physical and chemical properties of the solvent without generating significant additional waste (solid or liquid effluents).A webinar will take place at 2pm on 2nd November to explain this challenge in more detail.&nbsp;Registration is now open via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/game-changers-webinar-secondary-waste-reduction-in-fuel-reprocessing-tickets-125325992417" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 142, 209);">Eventbrite</a>.Funding&nbsp;is available for proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;challenge statement for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions NNL are seeking.<h4>How to apply</h4>If you think you can solve all or part of this challenge, please submit a funding application using our online application form.&nbsp;Guidance notes are available using the help buttons in the form.Please note that you must submit a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/poster-presentations/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 142, 209);">poster</a>&nbsp;as part of your application.&nbsp;You can save your application form as you complete it and return to it at a later time.

Reduction of secondary waste

NNL are seeking novel cleaning methods to extend the operational life of solvents and extractants employed during nuclear reprocessing.

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The challengeNNL are seeking alternative safe and efficient cleaning methods that retain the physical and chemical properties of the solvent without generating significant additional waste (solid or liquid effluents).A webinar took place on 2nd November to explain this challenge in more detail.&nbsp;If you missed the webinar or would like to recap, please watch the recording.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/475081644/"></iframe>Webinar agenda and video timings:<ul><li>Introduction and welcome 00:00</li><li>About NNL and Game Changers 0:05:53</li><li>The Challenge 0:24:24</li><li>Challenge Q&amp;A 0:37:49</li><li>Pitch Session 0:55:30</li><li>Challenges to the audience 1:06:00</li><li>How to apply 1:25:46</li></ul>Funding&nbsp;is available for proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;challenge statement for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions NNL are seeking.<h4>How to apply</h4>If you think you can solve all or part of this challenge, please submit a funding application using our online application form.&nbsp;Guidance notes are available using the help buttons in the form.Please note that you must submit a&nbsp;poster&nbsp;as part of your application.&nbsp;You can save your application form as you complete it and return to it at a later time.

NNL are seeking novel cleaning methods to extend the operational life of solvents and extractants employed during nuclear reprocessing to recover valuable re-useable plutonium (Pu) and uranium (U) from spent nuclear fuel.During their use, the solvents and extractants degrade and become contaminated. This can compromise the performance of reprocessing plants and necessitates the disposal of solvent and extractant as waste.Cleaning of the solvents and extractants to remove radioactivity and degradation products can be used to extend their operational life and reduces the production of waste solvent.

Manipulating americium in a glovebox challenge statement.pdf

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The National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) are seeking innovative and compact solutions to facilitate americium oxide powder handling for the production of space probe batteries.The powders will be handled in a new facility in NNL’s Central Lab, called “PuMA2”. Operator handling will be required in a process that separates americium-241 from aged plutonium dioxide.The primary objective of this challenge is to minimise contact dose uptake for operators when solids are transferred from a filter system to a suitable container for decomposition in a furnace with a glovebox.NNL are looking for solutions that offer a reduced footprint and lower cost in comparison to current design plans, whilst maintaining safe operation. Do you have a solution that can help NNL achieve this?A webinar to explain this challenge in more detail will be taking place on Tuesday 3rd November at 2pm.&nbsp;Registrations are now open via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/game-changers-webinar-manipulating-americium-in-a-glovebox-tickets-125316305443" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 142, 209);">Eventbrite</a>.Funding&nbsp;is available for proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;challenge statement for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions NNL are seeking.<h4>How to apply</h4>If you think you can solve all or part of this challenge, please submit a funding application using our online application form. Guidance notes are available using the help buttons in the form.Please note that you must submit a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/poster-presentations/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 142, 209);">poster</a>&nbsp;as part of your application.&nbsp;You can save your application form as you complete it and return to it at a later time.

Manipulating americium in a glovebox

NNL are seeking innovative and compact solutions to facilitate americium oxide powder handling for the production of space probe batteries.

Solving the challengeNNL are looking for solutions that offer a reduced footprint and lower cost in comparison to current design plans, whilst maintaining safe operation. Do you have a solution that can help NNL achieve this?A webinar to explain this challenge in more detail took place on 3rd November. If you missed the webinar or would like to recap, please watch the recording:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/475526192/"></iframe>The agenda and timings are as follows:<ul><li>Welcome 00:00:00</li><li>About NNL and Game Changers 00:06:20</li><li>The challenge 00:16:40</li><li>Challenge Q &amp; A 00:45:38</li><li>Pitch session 00:57:20</li><li>Challenges to the audience 1:07:00</li><li>How to apply 1:24:00</li></ul><h4>How to apply</h4>Funding&nbsp;is available for proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;challenge statement for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions NNL are seeking.If you think you can solve all or part of this challenge, please submit a funding application using our online application form. Guidance notes are available using the help buttons in the form.Please note that you must submit a&nbsp;poster&nbsp;as part of your application.&nbsp;You can save your application form as you complete it and return to it at a later time.

The National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) are seeking innovative and compact solutions to facilitate americium oxide powder handling for the production of space probe batteries.The powders will be handled in a new facility in NNL’s Central Lab, called “PuMA2”. Operator handling will be required in a process that separates americium-241 from aged plutonium dioxide.The primary objective of this challenge is to minimise contact dose uptake for operators when solids are transferred from a filter system to a suitable container for decomposition in a furnace with a glovebox.

Fuel pin remote sampling tool challenge statement.pdf

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NNL are seeking an innovative sampling tool to collect carbonaceous deposits from the cladding of Advanced Gas-cooled Reactor (AGR) fuel pins which are situated in cooling ponds.The sampling tool may work in conjunction with endoscopic equipment currently used by NNL for visual inspections of the fuel pins, or it may be a standalone device.Solutions to this challenge must be deployable within 12 – 24 months.A webinar describing this challenge in more detail will take place at 10am on 3rd November.&nbsp;Registrations are now open via&nbsp;<a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/game-changers-webinar-fuel-pin-remote-sampling-tool-tickets-125324036567" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 142, 209);">Eventbrite</a>.Funding is available for proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;challenge statement for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions NNL are seeking.<h4>How to apply</h4>If you think you can solve all or part of this challenge, please submit a funding application using our online application form.&nbsp;Guidance notes are available using the help buttons in the form.Please note that you must submit a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/poster-presentations/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 142, 209);">poster</a>&nbsp;as part of your application.&nbsp;You can save your application form as you complete it and return to it at a later time.

Fuel pin remote sampling tool

Innovative sampling tool needed by NNL to collect carbonaceous deposits from the cladding of Advanced Gas-cooled Reactor (AGR) fuel pins.

Background informationA webinar describing this challenge in more detail took place on the 2nd November. If you missed it or would like to recap, please watch the recording:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/475053980/"></iframe>Webinar agenda and video timings:<ul><li>Welcome 00:00:00</li><li>Introduction to Game Changers and NNL 0:12:00</li><li>The challenge 0:18:55</li><li>Q &amp; A 0:29:35</li><li>Challenge constraints 1:05:58</li><li>How to apply 01:32:34</li></ul><h4>How to apply</h4>Funding is available for proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;challenge statement for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions NNL are seeking.If you think you can solve all or part of this challenge, please submit a funding application using our online application form.&nbsp;Guidance notes are available using the help buttons in the form.Please note that you must submit a&nbsp;poster&nbsp;as part of your application.&nbsp;You can save your application form as you complete it and return to it at a later time.

NNL are seeking an innovative sampling tool to collect carbonaceous deposits from the cladding of Advanced Gas-cooled Reactor (AGR) fuel pins which are situated in cooling ponds.The sampling tool may work in conjunction with endoscopic equipment currently used by NNL for visual inspections of the fuel pins, or it may be a standalone device.Solutions to this challenge must be deployable within 12 – 24 months.

GC-Challenge-Statement-Characterisation-of-Landfill-and-Disposal_Web version.pdf

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Current characterisation regimes produce satisfactory information for permit compliance monitoring. However, to meet a defined remediation end state, more detailed information is required about the contents of the landfill and trenches. In particular, Sellafield would like to determine whether the disposal sites contain any discrete objects and whether actinides and their daughters are present.This call for innovation is open to applicants from any sector including industries such as oil and gas, mineral mining, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and water.Sellafield are seeking a proof of concept capable of deployment in a real environment as soon as practicably possible.<h3>The situation</h3>The Sellafield site has a number of legacy waste disposal facilities such as landfill, land-raise, tips and trenches which typically contain rubble, excavation works and demolition materials. To achieve the desired end state, Sellafield needs to demonstrate that these areas do not pose a radioactive hazard, can remain undisturbed and don’t have to be re-sentenced for alternative disposal.Sellafield would like to characterise and map these legacy disposal areas to confirm there is no radioactive material present. If the characterisation and mapping activities do detect the presence of radioactive material it will enable Sellafield to determine a suitable waste retrieval, repackaging and resentencing route for the contents of the disposal facilities.<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/our-process/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 142, 209);">Funding</a>&nbsp;is available for proof of concept projects which may provide a solution to all or part of this challenge.Please download the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Landfill-Characterisation-Challenge-Statement.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 142, 209);">Landfill Characterisation Challenge Statement</a>&nbsp;for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions Sellafield are seeking.<h3>How to apply</h3>If you think you can solve all or part of this challenge, please submit a funding application using our online application form.&nbsp;Guidance notes are available using the help buttons in the form.Please note that you must submit a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/poster-presentations/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(17, 142, 209);">poster</a>&nbsp;as part of your application.&nbsp;You can save your application form as you complete it and return to it at a later time.The deadline for applications is 12pm on Friday 9th October 2020.

Characterisation of landfill and disposal areas

Sellafield Ltd are seeking innovation to support the characterisation of landfill, land-raise, trenches and disposal areas

The situationThe Sellafield site has a number of legacy waste disposal facilities such as landfill, land-raise, tips and trenches which typically contain rubble, excavation works and demolition materials. To achieve the desired end state, Sellafield needs to demonstrate that these areas do not pose a radioactive hazard, can remain undisturbed and don’t have to be re-sentenced for alternative disposal.Sellafield would like to characterise and map these legacy disposal areas to confirm there is no radioactive material present. If the characterisation and mapping activities do detect the presence of radioactive material it will enable Sellafield to determine a suitable waste retrieval, repackaging and resentencing route for the contents of the disposal facilities.Please download the challenge statement&nbsp;for a full description of the challenge aims, current practice and the solutions Sellafield are seeking.

Sellafield Ltd are seeking ideas, innovations and technologies that will deliver game changing improvements over the current techniques used for characterisation of landfill, land-raise, trenches and disposal areas across the Sellafield site.Current characterisation regimes produce satisfactory information for permit compliance monitoring. However, to meet a defined remediation end state, more detailed information is required about the contents of the landfill and trenches. In particular, Sellafield would like to determine whether the disposal sites contain any discrete objects and whether actinides and their daughters are present.

Sellafield Ltd are seeking innovation to support the characterisation of landfill, land-raise, trenches and disposal areas.

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If you missed this month's Technology Talks you can catch up by watching the recording below.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/534376788/"></iframe>From oil well plugs to nuclear seals: successful technology transfer through Game ChangersProfessor Bob Eden, Rawwater Engineering Company LtdAging facilities require unique solutions for life extension and repair. Rawwater’s Molten Metal Manipulation (M3) technology for the nuclear industry can seal large openings or fill micron-sized cracks or pores, preventing fluid leakage.Key unique aspects when compared to other repair technology include reversibility, reapplication and zero curing time. M3 alloys are deployed using kinetic spray techniques or by pressure displacement – technology in development and testing.In this talk, Bob explained the journey Rawwater have embarked upon from their oil and gas heritage, through the Game Changers programme, to an ongoing nuclear offering and beyond.Commercialising Game Changers technology: introducing our Innovation ForumDr Stuart Brown, FIS360 LtdA new initiative is being developed to support the scaling and commercialisation of Game Changers technology. The Game Changers Innovation Forum will provide an opportunity to create connections between organisations receiving funding through the Game Changers process, and the rest of the nuclear supply chain.In this talk, Stuart described how the forum will facilitate commercial relationship development between Game Changers project partners and large supply chain companies, Site Licence Companies, other global nuclear operators and with Game Changers alumni. He also highlighted opportunities for involvement.

An introduction to the new Game Changers Innovation Forum and a successful technology transfer journey from the oil and gas sector to nuclear innovation featured in this month's talksRecording available

March Technology Talk webinar

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If you missed this month's Technology Talks you can catch up by watching the recording below.Sarah Bugby from Loughborough University described the Gamma Optical Video Imaging (GOVI) system. Originally developed for nuclear medicine, GOVI combines optical and high spatial resolution gamma imaging to produce a real-time display of the area being scanned. The system can provide the operator with an image showing the location, size, shape and relative activity of gamma emitting materials – with a camera head small enough to be posted through a 6-inch glovebox port. Due to the design of the camera, this can be done in real time without the need for post-processing – this means the camera can operate in video mode, constantly updating the images as the camera is moved. In her talk, Sarah discussed the technology behind the GOVI system, results from initial testing, and recent developments in building a system suitable for an on-site demo for POCO.Habiba Lais from the Brunel Innovation Centre presented an alternative technique to mobilise adhered solids using a non-invasive in-situ ultrasonic cleaning device for pipeline blockage breakdown. Habiba described the novel approach to dislodging blockages by designing an array of externally attached high power ultrasonic transducers to generate acoustic cavitation. To assist with mobilisation of the material, optimisation of the ultrasonic wave propagation has been demonstrated in laboratory investigations across different lengths of blockages.&nbsp;Watch the talks now:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/509412657/"></iframe>

January's talks featured real-time scanning combining optical and high spatial resolution gamma imaging and mobilising adhered solids using a non-invasive in-situ ultrasonic cleaning device. Recording available

January technology talk webinar

Sellafield Ltd and Dounreay are seeking novel solutions or improvements to existing processes to remove concrete floors and walls from contaminated pondsA recording of a workshop describing this challenge in detail which took place on 8th December 2020 is available via the <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/challenge/5fac456bca1252239a1a6c9c" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">removing contaminated concrete challenge page</a>.

Learn about this exciting Sellafield and Dounreay opportunity to remove contaminated concrete from the walls and floors of pondsRecording available

Interactive workshop - removal of contaminated concrete from ponds

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Sellafield Ltd and Dounreay are seeking innovative vessel and pipework organic residue characterisation techniques.A recording of the interactive workshop which took place on 9th December describing the challenge in more detail is now available to watch via the <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/challenge/5fac4315ca1252239a1a6c9b" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">detecting organics challenge page</a>.

Join us to learn about Sellafield's and Dounreay's challenge to detect organics and pipes and vesselsRecording available

Interactive workshop - detection of organics in pipes and vessels

NNL are seeking an innovative sampling tool to collect carbonaceous deposits from the cladding of Advanced Gas-cooled Reactor (AGR) fuel pins which are situated in cooling ponds.The sampling tool may work in conjunction with endoscopic equipment currently used by NNL for visual inspections of the fuel pins, or it may be a standalone device.If you missed our webinar or would like to recap, please watch the recording:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/475053980/"></iframe>

Find out about NNL's challenge to develop an innovative in-pond sampling tool

Webinar: fuel pin remote sampling tool

This webinar describes NNL's challenge to minimise contact dose uptake for operators when handling americium oxide powder in gloveboxes.Watch the recording now:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/475526192/"></iframe>

A webinar describing NNL's quest for innovative and compact solutions to facilitate americium oxide powder handling for the production of space probe batteries

Webinar: manipulating americium in a glovebox

NNL are seeking alternative safe and efficient cleaning methods that retain the physical and chemical properties of solvents used during nuclear reprocessing, without generating significant additional waste (solid or liquid effluents).If you missed our webinar or would like to recap, please watch the recording:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/475081644/"></iframe>

Opportunity to learn about NNL's search for novel cleaning methods to extend the operational life of solvents and extractants used during nuclear reprocessing

Webinar: reduction of secondary waste

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If you missed this month's Technology Talks you can catch up by watching the recording below.Featuring sessions from Resolve Robotics describing a versatile and modular robotic deployment system for working at height within hazardous environments and a new generation of 3D imaging systems being developed by i3D Robotics.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/476316056/"></iframe>

A robotic deployment system for working at height within hazardous environments - Andrew Ludar-Smith, Resolve RoboticsA new generation of 3D imaging systems - Nicholas Bantin and Benjamin Crutchley, i3D RoboticsWatch the recording now

October Technology Talk webinar

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If you missed this month's Technology Talks you can catch up by watching the recording below.Featuring sessions from Eadon Consulting describing an innovative approach to waste management and image processing technology being developed by the University of Strathclyde to support enhanced visual inspection of nuclear waste packages.Watch the talks now:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/451268372/"></iframe>

Innovative waste management - James Hill, Eadon ConsultingImage processing for enhanced visual inspection of nuclear waste packages - Paul Murray, University of StrathclydeWatch the recording now

August Technology Talks

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The first in our series of lunchtime Technology Talks featured sessions from Fraunhofer describing the range-resolved remote hydrogen detection technology they are developing with Game Changers and pioneering work being undertaken by Sensor Driven to extend the life of battery powered sensors.Listen to the talks now:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/425510659/"></iframe>

Detecting hydrogen at range - David Stothard, Fraunhofer Centre for Applied PhotonicsExtending the life of battery powered Sensors - Bernard Stark, Sensor DrivenRecording available now

June Technology Talks

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Two week-long challenge sprints, putting robots through their paces, have taken Sellafield a step nearer to finding a solution to one of its most complex problems.Sellafield uses a wide range of robots from all over the world for remote handling and inspection, all of which have their own unique programming language and interface. In a bid to find a single voice for these robotics, Game Changers launched a system architecture challenge. Two organisations&nbsp;were selected from those who stepped up to the challenge.&nbsp;Createc Robotics Ltd and UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) were awarded funding to further develop their potential solutions. The December challenge sprints, at which a series of robotic tasks were successfully completed, gave them the opportunity to demonstrate their progress.Dr Stuart Brown from Game Changers said: "The challenge sprint was recorded and broadcast live to stakeholders from Sellafield, National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) and invited independent robotics experts. This really helped to disseminate the challenge outcomes to a wider stakeholder audience whilst adhering to Covid restrictions."Game Changers are now developing detailed plans for proof of concept activities to further explore the benefits of standardised architecture. Chris Ballard, Sellafield Ltd’s programme manager for robotics and artificial intelligence, said: "Both organisations demonstrated the potential that a standardised control system can bring to Sellafield. We have asked Game Changers to develop detailed plans for proof of concept activities to explore a deeper understanding of how standardised architecture can work both commercially and in practical terms with real-use case examples taken from Sellafield."

Challenge sprints take Sellafield a step towards to finding a solution to one of its most complex problems

Robotics event proves potential of standardised architecture

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To mark International Women's Day and the start of a profile series about the people behind Game Changer projects, Game Changers are proud to introduce Dr Sarah Bugby, Loughborough University Physics Lecturer. Sarah leads one of Game Changers’ most promising projects, developing Gamma Optical Video Imaging (GOVI) for use in Post Operational Clean Out at Sellafield.Based on technology originally devised for medical imaging by the Universities of Leicester and Nottingham, GOVI combines optical and gamma imaging to produce a real-time display of areas being scanned. Sarah, who studied and worked at Leicester before moving on to Loughborough University, has been involved in extensive development of the technology for medical applications and now, working with Sellafield and Game Changers, she is identifying adaptations of GOVI needed for nuclear decommissioning.She said she discovered Game Changers by a lucky coincidence while working on hybrid gamma imaging for nuclear medicine. Discussing with a colleague possible further applications for the technology, a small market survey was held to determine other areas it could be useful. "From that, someone mentioned a Game Changers event and suggested I might attend," said Sarah. She did attend, pitched at the event and, from there, began the Game Changers journey."It is really exciting and, above all, I really hope it meets Sellafield's expectations," said Sarah. "I already know that some of the things we have done, we will continue working on. And I can see other technologies that, though not necessarily fully developed yet, I can bring to Sellafield's attention."She said Game Changers have what she described as a greater "route" within Sellafield, facilitating sharing with people across different areas.To anyone considering the Game Changers programme, Sarah's advice is simple: "Do it!" She also said they should be as open as possible about their technology. "Engage with the programme and take advantage of everything it has to offer."Wider benefits of Game Changers for Sarah include the Fellowship scheme, a wraparound training programme helping people to commercialise their ideas and attract further funding. “I personally, and the other delegates too, find this really useful.&nbsp;It’s particularly helpful for people like me who don’t already run a business and equally important for those who are in industry.”Sarah didn't have a burning ambition to be a scientist from childhood days but said she always knew she loved science. "I suppose you could probably blame David Attenborough," she said. "I always loved reading natural history books and I enjoyed breaking things to see how they worked."Physics wasn't originally top of Sarah's agenda. "But at Leicester, I found I really enjoyed research projects. I love learning new things."I'm lucky I really enjoy what I do. I really like teaching and very much enjoy my research work which brings me into contact with companies and hospitals in the real world."Women in scientific academia and research are still relatively rare. "You get used to often being the only woman at meetings," said Sarah, "and I really want that to change." She advises girls thinking of following a physics path: "If they enjoy it, they should do it. Even if you don’t base a career on it, choosing to study physics is not shutting doors, it's opening them."They should be confident in their ability and not think that because others may be willing to talk more loudly about their ideas that they are necessarily right. And I strongly recommend people should take maths as well. It's the tool physicists use to explain things."Although usually in a minority in the science arena, Sarah said she has never felt discriminated against. She is strongly supportive of the Institute of Physics campaign, Limit Less, designed to support and encourage young people to change the world and fulfil their physics potential.Sarah's current personal objective is to fulfil the potential of the Game Changer GOVI project and&nbsp;she has high hopes for a live demonstration of the technology at Sellafield after the culmination of the Proof of Concept stage. "That would be huge," she said.&nbsp; Photo credit: Kathryn Edwards Photography

Profile of Dr Sarah Bugby, Loughborough University Physics Lecturer and Game Changers innovator

Marking International Women's Day and the start of a profile series about the people behind Game Changer's, we're proud to introduce Dr Sarah Bugby, Loughborough University Physics Lecturer.

International Women's Day Throws Spotlight on Game Changers' People Potential

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Game Changers is proving again it's making its mark on the Sellafield scene with the announcement that the programme has been shortlisted in the Wave Awards 20/21.Wave Awards is an internal scheme set up by Sellafield to appreciate and celebrate the contribution of staff and teams. Game Changers submitted an entry in the Technological Innovation section and was chosen as one of four entries to be shortlisted in that category. A total of 166 applications were made across 10 categories.The Technological Innovation award covers advances in research and development as well as the imaginative or inventive use of technology to help deliver Sellafield's mission. Game Changers, launched in 2016, is designed to enable more effective and efficient R &amp; D by expanding the routes available to work with Sellafield, including through more diverse engagement with small and medium-sized enterprises and start-up companies.Their submission - Changing the Innovation Game - details how the programme aims to help solve some of Sellafield's most complicated innovation challenges.Virtual judging panels will be taking place over the next month and the winners will be announced at an online celebration which will take place in April.“It's rewarding to know that our efforts to support Sellafield meet some of its most difficult challenges have been recognised," said Frank Allison, CEO of FIS360 Ltd, one of the Game Changers delivery partners.&nbsp;

Game Changers innovation achievements have been recognised through Sellafield's Waves business award scheme

Game Changers is an innovation programme which finds solutions for complex nuclear industry challenges.We work with organisations of all sizes, across all sectors, to identify and develop the most promising technologies.

Game Changers is an innovation programme which finds solutions for complex nuclear industry challenges.

We work with organisations of all sizes, across all sectors, to identify and develop the most promising technologies.