Game Changers challenge - Production of thin film targets.pdf

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One of the variables in a neutron irradiation experiments is the targets required. That is, more specifically, the target which the generated neutrons interact with to produce a changed material. The proposed STELLAR system at Central Laboratory is intended to have a range of flexible applications that would require the synthesis of a diverse range of target materials, including the production of novel radionuclides for the improvement of radiation based medical treatments.NNL would therefore like to explore reproducible methods of producing thin films. These methods could potentially already be in use in different industries and could be adapted for nuclear use. Of particular interest are the ability to predict the formation of material in the thin-film and the ability to thoroughly clean production equipment when it is being used with different materials or on different runs.<h3>Find out more</h3>Please download the challenge statement for full details of this challenge. You can also watch a webinar recording to hear additional information from the challenge owner, details of how to apply and a Q &amp; A session:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/646210814/"></iframe>Proposals must be submitted using the Game Changers online application system.&nbsp;The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Thursday 25th November 2021.

Flexible method of production for thin film targets used in nuclear physics and nuclear medicine experiments

The National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) are inviting proposals to explore innovative processes or methods to put down thin, metal-based films onto a low atomic mass backing material in a flexible and reproducible manner. These thin films are to be used in a particle accelerator to help study fundamental nuclear physics and to identify and produce novel radioisotopes for research and use in the medical field.STELLAR is the name given to an ambitious NNL-led project to provide neutron irradiation facilities in the North West of England. Located at NNL’s Central Laboratory, STELLAR will define the requirements and establish a route to providing a unique UK and international capability for access to a high energy, high-flux neutron source.

The National Nuclear Laboratory are inviting proposals to explore innovative processes or methods to put down thin, metal-based films onto a low atomic mass backing material in a flexible and reproducible manner.

Game Changers challenge - thermochemical hydrogen production.pdf

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Additionally, technology associated with thermochemical cycles could be coupled to other heat sources including, for example concentrated solar systems. However, there are currently no industrial solutions utilising this technology and both technical and commercial barriers remain. These need to be overcome to enable informed technology, investment and policy decision making which could assist in moving the technology towards commercialisation.The National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) are interested in innovations that draw on any and all relevant UK and international capability including technology transfer opportunities from any relevant sector such as bulk chemical manufacture, power generation, catalysis and control / safety systems. NNL are interested in working with partners over the long-term to help develop solutions that could expedite demonstration of hydrogen generation at pilot scale and beyond.<h3>Find out more</h3>Please download a copy of the challenge statement for more details of this challenge.You can also watch a briefing webinar to hear the challenge owners describe this opportunity in detail and to listen to Q &amp; A.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/642640362/"></iframe> Proposals must be submitted using the Game Changers online application system.&nbsp;The deadline for applications is 12 noon on&nbsp;Thursday 18th November 2021.

Technologies to scale thermochemical methods of hydrogen production

When partnered with a high temperature heat source, thermochemical (with purely heat input) and electro-thermochemical (where at least one process step could be electrochemically driven) hydrogen production from water has potential cost and efficiency benefits compared to hydrocarbon based or solely electrochemical hydrogen production methods (i.e. electrolysis).The nuclear industry has been at the forefront of this pioneering technological development worldwide as the technology is compatible with the high heat output of certain reactor types that could lead to reduced cost of hydrogen.

The National Nuclear Laboratory are looking for innovations that could overcome the barriers to scaling commercial deployment of thermochemical methods of hydrogen production from water

Game Changers challenge statement - Detecting alpha radiation.pdf

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The primary aims of this challenge are:• Detection of alpha radiation from contaminated surfaces under daylight illumination conditions from a distance of 2 metres or greater• Precise identification of the location of areas of alpha contamination above 50 kBq per m2Although not a primary aim of this challenge, it would be beneficial to be able to:• Quantify the level of alpha activity on a surface• Be able to identify (‘finger-print’) the source material<h3>Find out more</h3>Please download a copy of the challenge statement for more details of this challenge.You can also watch a recording of a challenge webinar where you can hear the challenge owners describe this opportunity in detail and listen to Q &amp; A:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/642633637/"></iframe> Proposals must be submitted using the Game Changers online application system.&nbsp;The deadline for applications is 12 noon on&nbsp;Thursday 18th November 2021.

Stand-off alpha radiation detection under daylight conditions

The Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE) and National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) are seeking game changing solutions that could enable the remote (e.g. several metres distant) detection and identification of radiologically hazardous sources of alpha radiation and provide an accurate assessment of their location. As a time critical component of emergency responses, there is a need to more accurately and rapidly map radiological contamination. Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) hand-held alpha radiation monitoring equipment requires close proximity sweeps of the surfaces of potential source materials. This is time consuming, labour intensive and may not even be possible in some situations due to safety restrictions. Novel systems are sought that can operate from a distance of up to several metres under a range of illuminated conditions, including daylight.

The Atomic Weapons Establishment and National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) are seeking game changing solutions that could enable the remote detection and identification of radiologically hazardous sources of alpha radiation

Game Changers ANSIC Challenge Statement - digital technologies.pdf

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<ul><li>Digital twins and smart sensor networks: specifically, application within a nuclear environment, role with project delivery and quality assurance, asset management maintenance and operability, standards for sharing of digital information, off-site modular manufacture, and digitalisation of design-build-operate</li><li>Collaboration and security of digital assets: specifically, secure sharing of information, collaboration involving sensitive data sharing.&nbsp;Establishing a common cross industry approach to digitisation and an exploration of blockchain and cybersecurity technologies to support the establishment of a collaborative cross-industry digital ecosystem</li><li>Cloud technologies and large-scale computing: specifically nationally significant digital infrastructure to support new nuclear build</li><li>Artificial intelligence and high-fidelity computer simulation: specifically, application of AI to nuclear safety and operations, uncertainty in numerical simulation, credibility of computer models with key stakeholders including owner operators and nuclear regulators</li></ul><h3>Find out more</h3>This funding call is part of a short pilot of the Advanced Nuclear Skills and Innovation Campus (ANSIC), delivered by NNL on behalf of BEIS, and will provide feasibility grants of up to £25k per project.A challenge briefing webinar took place on 21st October 2021. Catch up on the recording here: <iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/638120476/"></iframe>

Digital technologies to  support development, deployment,  operation and decommissioning of  Advanced Nuclear Technologies

<h3>Advanced Nuclear Skills and Innovation Campus call for proposals</h3>On behalf of the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL), Game Changers are seeking innovative approaches to overcome barriers to the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies in the nuclear sector.&nbsp;It is recognised that digital integration, and the technology drivers behind Industry 4.0 have so far had limited traction in the nuclear industry, whilst having revolutionised other sectors.&nbsp;We would welcome proposals that will help the nuclear industry learn adopt technologies including but not limited to the following topics:

On behalf of the Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL), Game Changers are seeking innovative approaches to overcome barriers to the adoption of Industry 4.0 technologies in the nuclear sector

Game Changers challenge - advancing heat exchangers 2.pdf

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On behalf of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL), Game Changers are inviting proposals for innovative ideas which could advance technology for extracting and managing the heat from ANTs.&nbsp;This includes developing a better understanding of the requirements placed on such systems by energy conversion systems and reactors.&nbsp;Applications are therefore welcome that cover systems such as:<ul><li>Heat exchangers (e.g. ceramic boilers for high temperature applications, their materials and layout)</li><li>Manifolds capable of diverting the heat from the same reactor to various different energy conversion or use systems (e.g. materials, control systems, safety aspects)</li><li>Energy conversion systems in terms of the requirements that they place on any element of the heat transfer or management systems (e.g. the requirements from electrolysers or the intended industrial process end use</li><li>The requirements advanced reactors could place on heat transfer and management systems due to operation at elevated temperatures and pressures and the use of novel cooling fluids and/or fuel&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul><h3>Find out more</h3>This funding call is part of a short pilot of the Advanced Nuclear Skills and Innovation Campus (ANSIC), delivered by NNL on behalf of BEIS, and will provide feasibility grants of up to £25k per project.Please download the challenge statement for a full description of this challenge. Further information is also available via a recording of the challenge webinar:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/636043903/"></iframe>

Advancing heat exchangers, energy management and conversion systems for advanced nuclear technologies

<h3>Advanced Nuclear Skills and Innovation Campus call for proposals</h3>The drive to achieve Net Zero Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions by 2050 requires us to re-consider how we apply all our low carbon energy sources to enable deep decarbonisation of all energy end-use applications including home heating, shipping, land transport, aviation, agriculture and industry.Advanced nuclear technologies (ANTs), covering both Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs), have the potential to support decarbonisation in a wide variety of ways. This is beyond the decarbonisation opportunity represented by the conventional use of nuclear reactors, which in the UK operating fleet has been limited to electrical output.&nbsp;To be successful in the broader application of ANTs, there is a need for novel ways of extracting and managing the heat they produce for subsequent use in energy conversion systems.&nbsp;

Proposals are invited for innovative ideas which could advance technology for extracting and managing the heat from Small and Advanced Modular Reactors

Game Changers Challenge Statement - Materials Irradiation.pdf

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On behalf of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL), Game Changers are inviting proposals for innovative technologies that will enable the controlled irradiation of material specimens in nuclear reactors which are being simultaneously used for power generation. Solutions should take into consideration safe and secure integration into a range of advanced nuclear reactor designs, with regard for factors such as: how to introduce material into the reactor, control irradiation, remove material and extract samples.&nbsp;Subsequent sample preparation for transportation should be assumed to be undertaken in facilities located at or close to the reactor within appropriate timeframes.These secondary target irradiation activities must not affect long-term continuous reactor operation.<h3>Find out more</h3>This funding call is part of a short pilot of the Advanced Nuclear Skills and Innovation Campus (ANSIC), delivered by NNL on behalf of BEIS, and will provide feasibility grants of up to £25k per project.Please download the challenge statement for a full description of the aims of this challenge.You can also watch a recording of a challenge webinar to learn more about this opportunity and how to apply for funding:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/638560177/"></iframe>

Irradiation of materials specimens in advanced nuclear reactors

Innovative technologies to enable the controlled irradiation of materials specimens

<h3>Advanced Nuclear Skills and Innovation Campus call for proposals</h3>The design and development of advanced nuclear reactors offers a unique opportunity to develop technologies that can harness some of the energy produced to be used for irradiation of material specimens, without affecting primary reactor operations for power generation. This may include, but is not limited to, targets and specimens for irradiation research, medical isotope production, materials development, and materials processing and recycling.

Exploring innovative technologies that will enable the controlled irradiation of material specimens in nuclear reactors which are simultaneously being used for power generation

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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.

Call for Proposals - Industrial Innovator Research Project 2.pdf

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Find out moreIn this call, proposals for research projects that explore all potential uses of nuclear technology as part of a low carbon economy are invited. This includes, but is not limited to, research projects investigating:<ul><li>The use of nuclear technologies in hydrogen production, direct heat for industrial or domestic use, energy storage, chemical synthesis and production of medical isotopes</li><li>Technologies that enable the recovery and reuse of radioactive waste material for energy and non-energy use</li><li>Technologies that reduce the cost of advanced nuclear systems</li><li>Mechanisms of enabling licensing and validation of new technologies</li><li>Opportunities to derive additional value from advanced nuclear systems</li></ul>Please download the Call for Proposals PDF (via Get Challenge Statement) for full details of this opportunity and how to apply.An online briefing event took place on 15th&nbsp;September to provide an overview of ANSIC and further information about this call.&nbsp;Watch the recording now:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/606316882/"></iframe>Proposals must be submitted using the Game Changers online application system.&nbsp;The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Thursday 7th October 2021.Template documents for the supplementary information required as part of this application process are provided below. Please note that these documents are for guidance only and should not be regarded as being editable. There is no requirement to submit a poster in support of ANSIC open call applications.<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Template%20application%20PDF%20industrial.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Supporting information</a><a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Project%20plan.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Project plan</a>

Advanced Nuclear Skills and Innovation Campus industrial innovator research and development projects

On behalf of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL), Game Changers are inviting proposals from businesses for access to facilities at NNL’s Preston Laboratory to undertake research and development projects focussing on advanced nuclear technology.The projects must be undertaken between 15th November 2021 and 25th March 2022.This funding call is part of a short pilot of the Advanced Nuclear Skills and Innovation Campus (ANSIC), delivered by NNL on behalf of BEIS, and will provide innovation grants of up to £135k per project. It is intended that two innovation projects will be funded.&nbsp;The cost of instrument and facility access at NNL’s Preston Laboratory and support from NNL experts will be covered by ANSIC, and therefore free at point of use for the successful applicants.&nbsp;

Open call for proposals from businesses for access to facilities at NNL’s Preston Laboratory to undertake research and development projects focussing on advanced nuclear technology

Call for Proposals - Academic Research and Development Projects 2.pdf

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Find out moreIn this call, proposals for research projects that explore all potential uses of nuclear technology as part of a low carbon economy are invited. This includes, but is not limited to, research projects investigating:<ul><li>The use of nuclear technologies in hydrogen production, direct heat for industrial or domestic use, energy storage, chemical synthesis and production of medical isotopes</li><li>Technologies that enable the recovery and reuse of radioactive waste material for energy and non-energy use</li><li>Technologies that reduce the cost of advanced nuclear systems</li><li>Mechanisms of enabling licensing and validation of new technologies</li><li>Opportunities to derive additional value from advanced nuclear systems</li></ul>Please download the Call for Proposals PDF (via Get Challenge Statement) for full details of this opportunity.An online briefing event took place on 15th September to provide an overview of ANSIC and further information about this call.&nbsp;Watch the recording now:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/606359678/"></iframe> Proposals must be submitted using the Game Changers online application system.&nbsp;The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Thursday 7th October 2021.Template documents for the supplementary information required as part of this application process are provided below. Please note that these documents are for guidance only and should not be regarded as being editable. There is no requirement to submit a poster in support of ANSIC open call applications.<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/ANSIC%20template.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Supporting information</a><a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Project%20plan.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Project plan</a>

Advanced Nuclear Skills and Innovation Campus academic research and development projects

On behalf of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL), Game Changers are inviting proposals from academic institutions for access to facilities at NNL’s Preston Laboratory to undertake research and development projects focussing on advanced nuclear technology.The projects must be undertaken between 15th November 2021 and 25th March 2022.This funding call is part of a short pilot of the Advanced Nuclear Skills and Innovation Campus (ANSIC), delivered by NNL on behalf of BEIS, and will provide research grants of up to £65k per project. It is intended that two research projects will be funded. The cost of instrument and facility access at NNL's Preston Laboratory and support from NNL experts will be covered by ANSIC, and therefore free at point of use for the successful researchers.

Open call for proposals from academic institutions for access to facilities at NNL’s Preston Laboratory to undertake research and development projects focussing on advanced nuclear technology

GC Challenge Statement Magnox SL - Monitoring Waste Packages web.pdf

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A variety of container types are employed in waste packaging, and each has its particular constraints. It is therefore necessary to monitor the physical condition of the waste packages and the waste throughout the duration of their interim storage. This provides information regarding the integrity of the waste packages prior to their removal from the ISF.Both Magnox and Sellafield’s current monitoring arrangements are deemed suitable under current best practice. Both organisations are however keen to explore novel technologies and innovations that will:<ul><li>Indicate the condition of the waste package in the latter stages of its period of interim storage</li><li>Indicate the condition of the waste within the waste package</li><li>Reduce operator dose through remote means of monitoring</li><li>Enable the monitoring of aspects of waste package ageing that have been forecast, for which economic and practicable means for doing so have yet to be identified</li></ul>Accurately predicting the behaviour of waste and a waste package over a 100 year timeframe is obviously challenging. Some deterioration is to be expected, however techniques which offer some early indications of degradation or change would greatly increase regulator confidence. Such techniques may in future become routine depending on the ease of use, suitability of information provided and package ageing.Find out morePlease download a copy of the challenge statement for more details of this challenge.You can also watch a recording of a webinar describing this opportunity in detail:<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/613091188/"></iframe> For more information about the funding available through Game Changers, please see our <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Game%20Changers%20FAQs%203.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">funding FAQs</a>.The closing date for applications is Wednesday 6th October 2021 at 12 noon.

Monitoring of waste packages

Magnox and Sellafield are both responsible for decommissioning nuclear sites which requires the disposal of radioactive wastes. These wastes will ultimately be disposed of in a Geological Disposal Facility, which is yet to be built. In the meantime, the waste is stored safely in what is commonly referred to as interim storage. This involves taking the wastes and storing or immobilizing them in containers. The waste and its container are referred to as a waste package. These waste packages may require interim storage for up to 100 years.The buildings where the waste packages are stored are known as Interim Storage Facilities (ISF). These are purpose built enclosures with a range of designs and layouts. Waste packages are stacked and accessed via an overhead crane with varying levels of access around each stack.

Sellafield Ltd and Magnox would like to explore novel technologies and innovations for long term monitoring of stored waste packages

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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

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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

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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.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

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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

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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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Glovebox operator safety lies at the heart of a Sellafield challenge which has led to Game Changers funding for three organisations.The Needlestick Resistant Gauntlet Challenge, launched via the Knowledge Transfer Network innovation Exchange (KTN iX), seeks innovative approaches to needlestick and puncture resistant materials for use in glovebox gauntlets during nuclear decommissioning.Three organisations who stepped up to that challenge – First Graphene, Nanoregmed and Qinetiq – have been awarded Game Changers feasibility funding to develop their potential solutions.&nbsp;There are more than 700 gloveboxes on the Sellafield site. They are typically sealed, ventilated containers sometimes in an inert atmosphere. Long gloves (gauntlets) are attached to the gloveboxes and via these gauntlets operators access the gloveboxes. Gloveboxes being decommissioned often contain exposed wire, cropped cables, pipework or needlesticks, all of which may significantly endanger operators.Glovebox access is via 6-inch entry ports where containment has to be maintained and manoeuvrability is difficult due to limited access, light and visibility.Sellafield needs puncture-resistant gauntlets that will increase operator safety without significantly reducing dexterity or increasing the weight load for the operator.All three organisations awarded funding will be working on innovative materials which may be used to make gauntlets to replace existing gauntlets and cut-proof inner or over gloves.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Glovebox operator safety lies at the heart of a Sellafield challenge which has led to Game Changers funding for three organisations.

Challenge seeks safer glovebox gauntlets

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Game Changers innovators are now benefitting from a new training and mentoring programme to help broaden commercial horizons and support business growth and sustainability.Building on last year’s successful pilot Fellowship Programme, the Incubator will support six organisations receiving Game Changers Proof of Concept funding to help solve some of Sellafield’s decommissioning challenges. The organisations are Createc, Resolute Energy Solutions, Hybrid Instruments, FIRMA Engineering, Barrnon and Clifton Photonics.The Incubator will run for six months, starting and finishing with face-to-face events, with regular virtual workshops and one to one mentoring in between.A three-day residential launch in Whitehaven provided networking opportunities with key people from the nuclear sector and the local community. Sellafield speakers at the launch included Rebecca Weston, Sellafield’s Chief Operating Officer. Jo Lappin from Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership also provided an overview of innovation and opportunities in the region, and the event included a visit to Sellafield’s newly opened Engineering Centre of Excellence.Incubator participants will receive industry-leading training and business mentoring to help develop commercialisation strategies for their individual technologies and to provide unique insight into the nuclear sector.The virtual workshops will cover a wide range of topics including protecting your Intellectual Property Assets, business planning, equity funding and grant funding applications, growth and sustainability.Business mentoring will include monthly calls with highly experienced mentors who have collectively mentored more than 100 start-ups and spin outs. The networking element of Incubator is designed to build key contacts within the nuclear and entrepreneurial ecosystem in West Cumbria and beyond.The residential finale of the programme will be held in May.Elizabeth Adams, who is managing the Game Changers Incubator, said: “One of the things last year’s Fellowship group told me they really appreciated was getting to work with people from other backgrounds or other types of organisations. This year’s cohort brings together a really diverse set of skills, insight and experience and I hope they will help each other though sharing tips and advice on everything from working with large organisations to doing a great product demo.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Game Changers innovators are now benefitting from a new training and mentoring programme to help broaden commercial horizons and support business growth and sustainability

New training to nurture Game Changers innovators

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A successful demonstration of a new generation of 3D imaging systems, designed to provide safer working conditions, has won a Sellafield seal of approval.i3D Robotics (i3DR) worked with Game Changers, the National Nuclear Laboratory and Sellafield Ltd to develop a new, remotely operated, 3D mapping system. Based on space technology adapted for terrestrial use, the system combines high resolution imaging with machine learning to identify potentially sharp objects.Around 20 Sellafield staff from Post Operational Clean Out, remediation and business change roles attended the demonstration where they were given hands-on experience of the vision system within a real glovebox. Previously unknown sharps were included in the glovebox for identification and the demonstration was well received.The new imaging system can be deployed robotically to produce a 3D map of an environment in real terms. It can be merged with other sensors capable of detecting radiation and identifying harmful chemicals and place these in the context of the scene.Key benefits of the system are improved safety through the identification of unknown sharps and their location within gloveboxes, access via 6” ports to provide real-time images with 3D models and faster working times for operators through pre-identification and location of hazardous objects.Next steps in the system development will work towards practical deployment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

New generation 3D imaging system put through its paces

A successful demonstration of a new generation of 3D imaging systems, designed to provide safer working conditions, has won a Sellafield seal of approval.

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.