Automated deployment device challenge.pdf

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<h2>Challenge Aims</h2>The solution should:<ul><li>Be able to retrieve and transport spent, active clinoptilolite from two Bulk Storage Tanks</li><li>Deploy the vacuum lance through a maximum distance of 19m</li><li>Be able to manoeuvre the vacuum lance to collect settled clinoptilolite from all areas of the tanks</li><li>Be remotely deployable (and ideally automatic without requiring operator intervention). If fully automated control is impractical, all or part of the control could be by operator control (with adequate feedback)</li><li>Maximise the flow while not being prone to blockages</li><li>Give control feedback and adjust wand height/inclination, the water and air flow rates, if required</li><li>Potentially be reuseable in other tanks for other mixes of clinoptilolite</li><li>Radiation tolerant to deal with high dose / non-heat generating intermediate level waste</li></ul>A key part of this challenge is the automation and fine control of the vacuum lance and ensuring that the lance is kept in the waste so that it’s close enough to be able to influence and move material up into the hose. A control system will be needed to understand and give constant feedback on where the lance is relative to the constantly changing clinoptilolite material as it is gathered and removed.There are other ongoing projects and test rigs that are investigating mobilisation solutions for the waste. Such solutions include sluicing through to the use of pressurised water jets. Therefore, it may be possible to collect a large majority of the material without the need to extensively manoeuvre the vacuum lance. Ideally, all the waste will be removed; however, if a small quantity of residual waste cannot be removed, it can be dealt with during another project.<h3>Time Scale</h3>Active commissioning for SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP) is planned for early 2030 and the retrievals project aims to align itself with the beginning of operations within SCP. Thus, Sellafield Ltd require a demonstrated system by the end of 2029.There are only two Bulk Storage Tanks currently available to store spent, active clinoptilolite and the available space is running out. As a result, the SIXEP Continuity Plant (SCP) and eventually the SIXEP Waste Management Treatment Facility (SWMTF) will be commissioned to provide additional storage as well as a route to treatment. In order to remove the clinoptilolite from the current BSTs so that it can be sent to treatment (SWMTF), a retrieval strategy is crucial and thus the development of a deployment device and control system is of the highest priority.<h2>Find Out More</h2>Please download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity.An interactive webinar will take place at 2pm (GMT+1) on Thursday 20th August 2026 where delegates will have the chance to hear directly from the challenge owners and ask any questions. <a href="https://forms.fis360.com/fis360ltd/form/GameChangerswebinarAutomateddeploymentdeviceforret1/formperma/83-pDJMETDF6L4RbXzfCDXpRn4LtKu4NyO1_nB8_w-Y" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Register here for free.</a>The deadline for applications for this challenge is 3pm on Thursday 10th September 2026.<h2>Assessment of Applications</h2>Applications are reviewed against set criteria by a panel of challenge owners, prospective end‐users from our partner organisations, and Game Changers project staff. Brief summary feedback will be provided if your project is not awarded feasibility funding.Application forms and posters will be assessed consistently and transparently using the following criteria:<ol><li>How well does the application align with the challenge aims?</li><li>Is the proposed solution credible from the perspective of deployment?</li><li>What potential does the proposed solution have to transform practice in your area?</li><li>Do you feel the applicant is well placed to deliver a feasibility project?</li><li>Would the solution proposed in the application benefit from feasibility funding?</li><li>Does the application meet the scope of the challenge?</li></ol>

Automated deployment device for retrieval of granular waste from bulk storage tanks

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From cleaning-up the country’s highest nuclear risks and hazards to safeguarding nuclear fuel, materials and waste, Sellafield Ltd’s mission is nationally important.As they approach the completion of reprocessing and the site changes to decommissioning activities, Sellafield Ltd are increasingly focussed on environmental remediation and waste management.Research and development (R&amp;D) is fundamental to the delivery of their mission.&nbsp;New technologies and techniques can improve safety, security and reduce costs, timescales and environmental impact.Sellafield Ltd work in four value streams, prioritising efforts and maximising value:<ul><li>Retrievals: Sellafield Ltd are retrieving nuclear waste, fuel and sludge that are stored inside their legacy ponds and silos, the highest risks and hazards at Sellafield</li><li>Remediation: beyond the legacy ponds and silos, Sellafield Ltd have hundreds of nuclear and non-nuclear facilities that need to be cleaned-up</li><li>Spent nuclear fuel management: Sellafield Ltd are moving towards storing fuel instead of reprocessing it</li><li>Special nuclear materials: Sellafield Ltd have the facilities and expertise to provide safe, secure and appropriate storage for special nuclear materials</li></ul><h3>To support these value streams, Sellafield Ltd are particularly interested in innovation in these areas:</h3>

Sellafield Ltd (Lead partner)

Sellafield Ltd is seeking an innovative deployment device and remote control system to support pneumatic conveying for the retrieval of highly active, friable granular material (Clinoptilolite) from Bulk Storage Tanks (BSTs) approaching full capacity. Retrieving this waste is needed to enable Post Operational Clean Out (POCO) and could also support the management of waste from future storage facilities.The deployment device must remotely position and control the retrieval system to maximise efficiency, using monitoring data such as system position, pressure drop and material flow rate. A successful solution could also be adapted for future Magnox sludge retrieval, delivering wider benefits across Sellafield's waste management operations. <a href="https://forms.fis360.com/fis360ltd/form/GameChangerswebinarAutomateddeploymentdeviceforret1/formperma/83-pDJMETDF6L4RbXzfCDXpRn4LtKu4NyO1_nB8_w-Y" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Register for the webinar to find out more.</a>

Sellafield Ltd is seeking a deployment device to support pneumatic conveying equipment for the retrieval and transport of friable granular material from Bulk Storage Tanks (BST). Space within these tanks is running out, requiring the material to be transferred to a new treatment facility. Developing a deployment device and automated control system to move this material is the focus of this challenge.

Alternative skip handler for nuclear storage ponds challenge.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSSellafield Ltd is seeking solutions that can effectively interface with skips, move and reposition them within the ponds, and allow recovery of those skips into safer storage.The main aim is to allow movement of skips within the FGMSP without reliance on the SHM (i.e. so skips can still be moved when the SHM is in outage). Any solution must be able to work under the pond water conditions and accurately move the skips from stacks to the export cell and bay bogies around the pond.Additionally, the solution should be able to deploy with the sludge retrieval tools to enable the removal of radioactive sludge from the ponds.Within the stacks, it is acknowledged that some solutions may not be able to access skips adjacent to the pond walls or in the corners, and, whilst this would be preferrable, Sellafield Ltd still would be open to solutions that can only manage a limited number of skips.Whilst the FGMSP is the main focus, solutions that can be applied to the PFSP would also be desirable.The Legacy Ponds Programme is currently considering short-term solutions to enable skip movements for export from FGMSP due to the SHM repair outage, with the focus on short time to implementation. This Game Changers challenge is intended to address the longer-term need for performance and reliability as well as the ability to undertake all functions required of the current SHM.As Sellafield Ltd’s legacy ponds retrievals programme is currently ongoing, solutions that can be implemented within a 1–2 year timeframe would be advantageous. Full solutions or partial solutions that can enable a suite of different technologies in a retrievals toolkit are welcomed. FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity.You can watch a webinar and Q&amp;A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1154669489/"></iframe>The deadline for applications for this challenge is 3pm on Friday 30th January 2026. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR THIS CHALLENGEWhat are the safety case requirements for the lift process, e.g. redundant load paths or seismic assessment?The current safety case has been assessed against the current system without wider consideration; hence new solutions would require an update to the safety case assessment and possibly subject to HAZOP review. However, this should not rule out innovation of new ideas. There may be some elements that are covered by the existing safety case, e.g. dropped loads for SHM will have been assessed based on skip remaining underwater.Ultimately, solutions will require more general balance of ALARP arguments based various parameters, e.g. dose, failure and recovery, space constraints, performance and reliability. For example, in comparison to a small floating platform, a 600t crawler crane lifting skips out of the pond would need a fairly compelling argument to justify.Is chemical analysis/composition of pond water available for material selection?The pond water is caustic dosed to pH 11.6 and contains various particulates from spent Magnox fuel corrosion. Various radiological species and competing ions are monitored, such as total beta, total alpha, Cs-137, Sr-90, Mg (total and soluble), Na, K, Ca. More detailed chemical analysis can be made available to successful applicants.If we're successful in the second phase and provide a viable solution, what's the estimated potential value?In terms of the value of an alternative to the SHM, we generally assess the number of years off programme as a measure of reduction in hazard and risk. In terms of monetary value, an order of magnitude estimate is available on the gov website (<a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/case-studies/quality-and-continuous-improvement-first-generation-magnox-storage-pond-fgmsp#:~:text=The%20information%20on%20how%20much,timescales%20extending%20into%20the%20future." rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Quality and Continuous Improvement - First Generation Magnox Storage Pond (FGMSP) - Case study - GOV.UK</a>) outlining "each year the project is extended an additional sum of approximately £60 million would be needed". ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONSApplications are reviewed against set criteria by a panel of challenge owners, prospective end‐users from our partner organisations, and Game Changers project staff. Brief summary feedback will be provided if your project is not awarded feasibility funding.Application forms and posters will be assessed consistently and transparently using the following criteria:<ol><li>How well does the application align with the challenge aims?</li><li>Is the proposed solution credible from the perspective of deployment?</li><li>What potential does the proposed solution have to transform practice in your area?</li><li>Do you feel the applicant is well placed to deliver a feasibility project?</li><li>Would the solution proposed in the application benefit from feasibility funding?</li><li>Does the application meet the scope of the challenge?</li></ol>

Alternative skip handler for nuclear storage ponds

Sellafield Ltd is seeking an alternative to the Skip Handling Machine (SHM) used in the First Generation Magnox Storage Pond (FGMSP). The FGMSP is an ageing and degrading facility and a high Hazard and Risk Reduction priority. Reliance on a single crane limits throughput, particularly during planned maintenance or unplanned outages. The challenge is to identify a solution that can safely operate underwater to move and position skips, work alongside or independently of the SHM, and potentially deploy sludge retrieval tools. Applicability to the Pile Fuel Storage Pond (PFSP) and other sites would be beneficial.An alternative skip handling solution would increase operational resilience by allowing skip movements and exports to continue when the SHM is unavailable, while also accelerating exports when used in parallel.

Sellafield Ltd seeks an alternative skip handling system for ageing nuclear storage ponds to maintain and accelerate skip movements and exports, supporting Hazard and Risk Reduction when the existing Skip Handling Machine is unavailable.

BEPO reactor decommissioning challenge.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSThe overarching aim of this programme is to generate fit-for-purpose, reliable, and scalable solutions that accelerate the decommissioning of BEPO and reduce long-term costs. Traditional methods project completion in the late 2040s; this challenge seeks to unlock smarter, faster, and more innovative approaches that can be adapted for use across the wider UK nuclear fleet.Through this initiative, NRS aims to:<ul><li>Improve safety practices by reducing manual intervention and enhancing control over hazardous environments</li><li>Reduce long-term costs through more efficient processes and reduced programme duration</li><li>Enhance operational efficiency by integrating automation, digital tools, and advanced handling techniques</li><li>Establish scalable practices that can be applied across the NDA’s fleet of over 50 reactors</li><li>Contribute to global advancements in nuclear decommissioning through knowledge sharing and technology transfer</li></ul>AccessThe core challenge is to design and implement innovative technologies and strategies that ensure safe, efficient, and dependable access to the BEPO reactor core. NRS is interested in robotics solutions in particular, although not exclusively. This involves developing temporary works, enabling activities, and robust procedures to facilitate entry – whether from the top or side, through the concrete shielding, or from beneath. No single route is prescribed, which opens opportunities for creative demolition techniques and novel approaches to overcome access constraints.This includes but is not limited to:<ul><li>Working at height</li><li>Demolition/removal of either part of concrete shielding or one thermal column (Figure 2)</li><li>Accessing the thermal column</li><li>Temporary works</li><li>Temporary structures</li><li>Remote and semi-remote technologies minimising waste</li><li>Health and safety priority</li></ul>A particular emphasis is placed on remote or semi-remote solutions, with a focus on minimising waste and prioritising health and safety throughout the process.Dismantling &amp; Materials HandlingThe aim of this theme is to identify and develop innovative methods, including robotic handling, to enable the safe and efficient dismantling of the BEPO reactor. In particular, NRS is seeking solutions that have the potential to be deployed fully remotely, with the operator working from outside the building. Currently available practice includes the use of vacuum lifters, drill and tap solutions, and x-y plotters for remote handling.The structure of the BEPO reactor is outlined in Figure 2 and further details can be provided for successful applicants. Solutions that can dismantle all or part of the reactor are sought. Briefly, the reactor contains the following elements:<ul><li>Reinforced concrete (7ft 6” thick biological shield, and foundations)</li><li>Bismuth tray barrier (7”)</li><li>Activated graphite (7.9m cube comprised of ~23,000 blocks, each between 12” x 12” x 48” and 2.23” x 7.24” x 29”, weighing approx. 850 tons in total)</li><li>Cast iron plates and thermal shields (between 2”–6” thick)</li><li>Rods (control, safety and shutdown) that contain Boron carbide</li><li>Fuel rods</li><li>Steel grid structures</li></ul>WasteDismantling of the BEPO reactor will lead to a significant volume of waste that must be packaged and disposed of. The aim of this theme is to improve waste management and disposal through mechanisms that include:<ul><li>Segregating different materials</li><li>Segregating different radioactivity levels of waste (Intermediate level waste (ILW), low level waste (LLW), very low level waste (VLLW))</li><li>Cutting or size reduction of materials</li><li>Packaging waste into predefined shielded flasks and containers</li><li>Managing traceability of waste</li><li>Investigating cleaning or recycling of materials where possible</li></ul>Digital SolutionsThe aim of this theme is to drive innovation in decommissioning by leveraging digital solutions that enhance safety, efficiency, and operational effectiveness. Key objectives include improving data storage and sharing, enabling streamlined supply chain access, and supporting the adoption of advanced technologies such as digital construction methods, intelligent infrastructure, autonomous systems, digital modelling and data-driven decision-making tools.By embracing approaches like augmented reality, virtual reality (VR), Building Information Modelling (BIM), Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), and digital twins, the challenge seeks to elevate safety standards, reduce human exposure to hazardous environments, and transform ways of working through better knowledge management, analytics, and predictive asset management. Additionally, automating characterisation, monitoring and inspection tasks that require significant people hours will release operators from repetitive and time-consuming work.NRS is seeking integrated digital tools used throughout the decommissioning process to support more informed, responsive and safe decommissioning operations. This includes the use of:<ul><li>Data capture</li><li>Surveying</li><li>Modelling</li><li>Automation</li><li>Data storage and sharing</li></ul> FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity.You can watch a webinar and Q&amp;A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1136634110/"></iframe>The deadline for applications for this challenge is 3pm (GMT) on Thursday 27th November 2025.﻿Within your application, please clearly identify which of the following four priority area(s) your solution addresses – Access, Dismantling &amp; Materials Handling, Waste, Digital Solutions, or a combination of these.&nbsp;If you have experience of deploying technologies, please ensure that you evidence it within your application form or poster, as it will count towards the scoring of your application.Please note that applicants without prior deployment experience may wish to find a collaborative partner to support them or indicate that they would like to be introduced to potential collaborators should their application be successful. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR THIS CHALLENGEFollowing the webinar, NRS have provided the following additional diagram of the BEPO fuel channel dimensions&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/Dimensions.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">See the diagram here</a>. ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONSApplications are reviewed against set criteria by a panel of challenge owners, prospective end‐users from our partner organisations, and Game Changers project staff. Brief summary feedback will be provided if your project is not awarded feasibility funding.Application forms and posters will be assessed consistently and transparently using the following criteria:<ol><li>How well does the application align with the challenge aims?</li><li>Is the proposed solution credible from the perspective of deployment?</li><li>What potential does the proposed solution have to transform practice in your area?</li><li>Do you feel the applicant is well placed to deliver a feasibility project?</li><li>Would the solution proposed in the application benefit from feasibility funding?</li><li>Does the application meet the scope of the challenge?</li></ol>

Innovative Solutions for BEPO Reactor Decommissioning

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Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS) is responsible for the safe and secure clean-up of 12 nuclear sites across the UK, including ten former electricity generating stations and two research sites, and the operation of one hydro-electric plant.Following defuelling of the sites, our work now is as diverse as it is challenging as we pioneer the use of innovative techniques to accelerate decommissioning and clean-up.It is a complex process, bringing together many conventional challenges such as asbestos removal and asset management, as well as characterisation, processing and packaging of radioactive waste, land remediation and ultimately removal of reactor cores.Many of the challenges being faced by NRS are firsts of a kind, meaning our work is constantly pioneering and continually looking for ways of sharing best practice and seeking improvement.We work hand in hand with our supply chain to transform the tools and techniques used to deliver this important work; growing our expertise in areas such as robotics, virtual reality and digital technology which will ultimately offer significant benefits to the UK and beyond.

Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS)

Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS), part of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), is responsible for decommissioning nuclear and research sites across the UK. These projects pose complex technical and operational challenges, which NRS addresses through focused research and development.To improve safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, NRS is exploring innovative technologies not yet adopted within the industry. The British Experimental Pile 0 (BEPO) at Harwell will act as a testbed for these emerging solutions. BEPO’s compact design and low radiological risk make it ideal for piloting new decommissioning methods, with successful innovations to be applied across the NDA’s 50+ reactors. NRS seeks advances in Access, Dismantling &amp; Materials Handling, Waste, and Digital Solutions.

Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS) is seeking innovative technology solutions to support the decommissioning of nuclear reactors across the UK, with a focus on four key areas: Access, Dismantling &amp; Materials Handling, Waste, and Digital Solutions.

Needlestick and puncture-resistant materials challenge.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSThis challenge aims to enhance operator safety by identifying and developing needlestick and puncture-resistant materials for use in gauntlets, as well as other protective equipment such as containment bags and lay-down sheets. These materials must provide superior puncture resistance while maintaining dexterity in gauntlets, tear resistance and avoiding additional weight or bulk.While Sellafield Ltd can offer guidance on sizing and manufacturing specifications, the primary focus is on materials that can be effectively transformed into functional, puncture-resistant gauntlets and related equipment. Proposals should include evidence of the materials’ protective capabilities along with plans for their development into the requested items.Within your application, please clearly specify which item(s) your solution addresses – gauntlets, containment bags, lay-down sheets, or a combination of these. FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity.You can watch a webinar and Q&amp;A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1140363166/"></iframe>The deadline for applications for this challenge is 3pm (GMT) on Thursday 4th December 2025. ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONSApplications are reviewed against set criteria by a panel of challenge owners, prospective end‐users from our partner organisations, and Game Changers project staff. Brief summary feedback will be provided if your project is not awarded feasibility funding.Application forms and posters will be assessed consistently and transparently using the following criteria:<ol><li>How well does the application align with the challenge aims?</li><li>Is the proposed solution credible from the perspective of deployment?</li><li>What potential does the proposed solution have to transform practice in your area?</li><li>Do you feel the applicant is well placed to deliver a feasibility project?</li><li>Would the solution proposed in the application benefit from feasibility funding?</li><li>Does the application meet the scope of the challenge?</li></ol>

Needlestick and puncture-resistant materials for enhanced nuclear safety

Decommissioning work at Sellafield requires the handling of hazardous materials in confined environments such as gloveboxes. Current equipment is increasingly strained under the demands of modern decommissioning tasks. Sellafield Ltd currently uses approximately 200–250 gauntlets per month in addition to containment bags and lay-down sheets that are essential for the safe handling and transport of sharp or contaminated materials.There is an urgent need for next-generation materials capable of providing enhanced protection. Sellafield Ltd is seeking to collaborate with innovators and suppliers to accelerate the development, testing, and deployment of novel materials for use in gauntlets, containment bags and lay-down sheets.

Sellafield Ltd is seeking innovative, scalable solutions for needlestick and puncture-resistant materials to improve gauntlets, containment bags, and lay-down sheets, enhancing operator safety and operational efficiency.

Immobilising spring hangers challenge.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSNRS is seeking solutions that will support and immobilise structures that are currently supported by spring hangers.During decommissioning, NRS will need to remove all spring hangers, including those providing essential structural support. During this removal process, it is essential to provide alternative support for the structures that are currently suspended from spring hangers to maintain their structural integrity. These structures will need to remain in situ for a number of years whilst decommissioning operations are undertaken.Ideally, any solutions to this challenge would be applied remotely, although this is not essential. Where solutions cannot be applied remotely, the use of specialist rope access or other means that avoid the need for scaffolding structures for access are preferred.Ideally, solutions would be deployed in tandem with the protection methods described in the Current Practice section. Where this is not the case, solutions should also provide a means to prevent the ejection of spring hanger components in the event of tie-rod failure or spring-shatter/collapse.NRS has an immediate focus on the hardest-to-reach assemblies at Hinckley Point A, but that particular scenario is not the limit of application for successful solutions to this challenge. FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity.You can watch a webinar and Q&amp;A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1134618404/"></iframe>The deadline for applications for this challenge is 3pm (GMT) on Tuesday 18th November 2025. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR THIS CHALLENGEIn the webinar, the following question was raised:Can you provide an upper bound or a range of quantitative data for the following components:<ol><li>Spring force</li><li>Spring weight</li><li>Spring dimensions</li><li>Duct weight</li></ol>NRS have provided a drawing of the largest type of spring hanger assembly within the NRS fleet.&nbsp;The weight of this assembly is approximately 500kg and it supports a duct that weighs approximately 60 tonnes. <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/GC_Spring_Hangers_NRS_Genspring_M7.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">See the diagram here</a>. ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONSApplications are reviewed against set criteria by a panel of challenge owners, prospective end‐users from our partner organisations, and Game Changers project staff. Brief summary feedback will be provided if your project is not awarded feasibility funding.Application forms and posters will be assessed consistently and transparently using the following criteria:<ol><li>How well does the application align with the challenge aims?</li><li>Is the proposed solution credible from the perspective of deployment?</li><li>What potential does the proposed solution have to transform practice in your area?</li><li>Do you feel the applicant is well placed to deliver a feasibility project?</li><li>Would the solution proposed in the application benefit from feasibility funding?</li><li>Does the application meet the scope of the challenge?</li></ol>

Immobilising spring hanger assemblies for safe decommissioning

Nuclear Restoration Services Ltd (NRS) is decommissioning former Magnox nuclear power stations, where ducting in pressurised circuits was supported by spring hangers to absorb vibration and thermal movement. Larger, pre-compressed versions – constant load spring hangers – remain in use across sites, with around 1,000 still supporting essential ducting. These contain significant stored energy, posing a risk of high-speed projectile failure if released.During decommissioning, NRS must safely remove all spring hangers while maintaining alternative structural support to prevent ducting movement and ensure stability of suspended systems throughout the lengthy decommissioning process.

Nuclear Restoration Services Ltd (NRS) is seeking solutions that will provide immobilisation of constant load spring hangers during decommissioning of the former Magnox nuclear power stations.

Remote deployment method for sensors.pdf

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CHALLENGE AIMSSellafield Ltd is seeking a method to remotely deploy corrosion-sensing and inspection equipment via the ceiling ports or ground-level ventilation ducts of cells within SPRS. The deployment solution should be able to reach all required parts of the cell to place corrosion-sensing equipment at all required sites of corrosion, including those on the extrusions and on the welds.The deployment solution should be able to carry and deliver the sensor payload to where it is required and hold the sensing equipment in place at all times. It should be able to tolerate the radioactivity levels within the cell. It should also be able to record the locations of analysis/data or sample collection and should be robust so that it can be repeated across other cells within SPRS.Sellafield Ltd is seeking any solutions to this challenge to be operational/business as usual by 2029. This means that an active demonstration of a solution would be required by early 2028 at the latest. However, if an earlier solution is presented, this would be desirable. FIND OUT MOREPlease download the challenge statement for full details of this opportunity.You can watch a webinar and Q&amp;A session with the challenge owners for more information and details of how to apply.<iframe class="ql-video" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/1125987078/"></iframe>The deadline for applications for this challenge is 3pm on Thursday 30th October 2025. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR THIS CHALLENGEAdditional information was requested during the webinar for detail on the access points to the store (above and below):Store additional information:<ul><li>Floor to lower steelwork – 2230mm</li></ul>&nbsp;Access to the ventilation duct:<ul><li>Manhole entry – 600mm x 600mm (please use this updated figure instead of the 730mm x 730mm as reported in the Challenge Statement).</li><li>Floor thickness – 500mm (e.g. length of ‘drop’ through the manhole)</li><li>Void height – 1000mm</li></ul>&nbsp;Access via roof access ports:<ul><li>There are no restrictions for equipment transfer through the plant (assuming any equipment can fit through a standard doorway)</li><li>A limiting size of 750mm (l) x 750mm (w) x 2000mm (h) would be suitable for access in the corridor above the roof access ports</li></ul>﻿ASSESSMENT OF APPLICATIONSApplications are reviewed against set criteria by a panel of challenge owners, prospective end‐users from our partner organisations, and Game Changers project staff. Brief summary feedback will be provided if your project is not awarded feasibility funding.Application forms and posters will be assessed consistently and transparently using the following criteria:<ol><li>How well does the application align with the challenge aims?</li><li>Is the proposed solution credible from the perspective of deployment?</li><li>What potential does the proposed solution have to transform practice in your area?</li><li>Do you feel the applicant is well placed to deliver a feasibility project?</li><li>Would the solution proposed in the application benefit from feasibility funding?</li><li>Does the application meet the scope of the challenge?</li></ol>

Remote deployment method for sensors in nuclear store structures

The Sellafield Product and Residue Store (SPRS) houses special nuclear materials (SNM) that have resulted from nuclear fuel reprocessing activities. The SPRS is ventilated by the natural convection of unfiltered air, and it is known that the moisture and salt in the air are causing corrosion of steel and aluminium structures (extrusions) within the SPRS.Sellafield Ltd needs to understand whether the observed corrosion is going to be limiting to the forecast 100-year lifetime of the SPRS store and needs a method of deploying corrosion-sensing equipment to the sites of the corrosion.

Sellafield Ltd is seeking a method to remotely deploy corrosion-sensing and inspection equipment to and from corrosion sites within the Sellafield Product and Residue Store (SPRS) to help inform decision-making for the store and its content.

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The United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL) is a UK government owned and operated nuclear services technology provider covering the whole of the nuclear fuel cycle.Established in 2008, UKNNL brought together the UK’s nuclear research and development capability into one organisation.UKNNL provide expertise, technology and access to cutting-edge facilities to organisations around the world.&nbsp;Their scientists and technologists are working at the forefront of nuclear innovation to address challenges and harness opportunities across the industry.UKNNL work on projects as small as drilling a hole to analyse underground wastes with their integrated microdrilling technology, and as large as developing state-of-the-art power systems, based on radioactive materials, for spacecraft.<h2>Innovation at UKNNL</h2>UKNNL has always been at the forefront of nuclear innovation, bringing their expertise to solve some of the industry’s most intractable problems.&nbsp;As custodians of some of the most advanced laboratories, active handling facilities, and nuclear technology research facilities in the world, UKNNL’s ability to bridge the gap between idea and application is second to none.As the nuclear sector faces a major challenge to innovate in order to compete on cost with other low-carbon technologies, UKNNL are broadening their innovation capabilities.&nbsp;The organisation has growing expertise in robotics, artificial intelligence and new materials.With a strong focus on adopting innovation from outside the sector, UKNNL are now working in partnership with Game Changers to find solutions to some of their own challenges.

United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL)

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Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS) Dounreay is Scotland’s largest decommissioning project and is internationally recognised as one of the most complex nuclear site closure projects.For more than 50 years it was the centre of the UK’s fast reactor research and development.&nbsp;Now the team is aiming to be recognised as a centre of excellence for nuclear decommissioning.&nbsp;The experimental nature of many of its redundant facilities which included the full spectrum of nuclear operation from fuel manufacture and reactor operation to spent fuel reprocessing and waste storage means that the clean up and demolition is complex and requires innovation and great care.Cleaning up the site poses challenges involving both high radiation and contamination as well as various hazardous chemical cocktails. This presents challenges as new and innovative solutions are required to access remote cells, ducts and vessels for inspection, characterisation, size reduction and material handling. The objective is to safely package and dispose of the materials and permit site remediation.

NRS Dounreay

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NWL supplies water and sewerage services to just under 4.4 million people.Water is supplied to 794,000 properties in Essex and Suffolk, with water and sewerage services provided to 1.3 million properties in the north east of England.NWL employs just under 3,000 people and operates:<ul><li>53 water treatment works</li><li>394 water pumping stations</li><li>341 water service reservoirs</li><li>26,200.20 km water mains</li><li>410 sewage treatment works</li><li>1,007 sewage pumping stations</li><li>30,106 km sewers</li></ul>Every day we supply 1,104 megalitres (1.1 billion litres) of water. This water is drawn from reservoirs, where it is collected and stored, rivers and groundwater sources. It is treated at our works before it is delivered by a network of pipes to homes and businesses.In the north east of England, where we also provide sewerage services, wastewater is then collected from these properties via the sewerage network and treated at our works before it is returned to the environment as either clean water or sludge which can be recycled as fertiliser or used to generate energy.

Northumbrian Water

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Part of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy's (BEIS)&nbsp;£505m Energy Innovation Programme, the Advanced Fuel Cycle Programme (AFCP) is investigating the role of advanced nuclear fuels and fuel cycles for a Net Zero future. With the UK Government committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, AFCP is laying the foundation from which Britain can maximise its current capability, meet Net Zero and continue deploying sustainable fuel and recycling concepts through the future.Developed to help equip the UK with the right skills, technology and networks to achieve carbon neutrality, AFCP leverages cross-country collaboration and cutting-edge science to steer the direction of future energy systems.Led in partnership by BEIS and the&nbsp;UK's National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL),&nbsp;AFCP pioneers a uniquely collaborative approach to innovation. Uniting NNL’s unique nuclear infrastructure with the innovative skills and capabilities of more than 100 organisations across over 10 countries, AFCP is delivering a suite of fuel cycle science themes with measurable impact across Britain’s evolving low-carbon landscape.<h3>Fuel cycle themes</h3>AFCP is divided into 11 distinct themes covering Advanced Nuclear Fuels through to Advanced Recycling and Sustainability.&nbsp;Together, these themes span the nuclear fuel cycle to enable future nuclear innovation and deployment in the UK.&nbsp;Advanced nuclear fuels<ul><li>Accident tolerant fuel: AFCP is elevating advanced technology fuels to realise their full range of benefits, fabricating and testing safe, affordable fuels of the future.</li><li>Coated particle fuel: advanced kernel technology has become increasingly valuable for high-temperature reactor conversations. </li><li>Fast reactor fuel: pioneering fast reactor technologies for more energy-efficient reactors. AFCP is investigating test fuel for fast reactor technologies and transuranic materials handling techniques.</li><li>Nuclear data: improving nuclear data to make energy analysis more insightful and accurate than ever before. </li></ul>Advanced recycling and sustainability<ul><li>Aqueous recycle: efficient recycling of water-based by-product is essential to reduce the amount and radiotoxicity of nuclear material.</li><li>Off gas capture: minimising the environmental impact of advanced recycling while ensuring industry can effectively meet regulation standards.</li><li>Pyro-processing: understanding the chemical and physical changes that can transform used nuclear reactor material into new fuel. </li><li>Waste immobilisation technologies: developing innovative technologies to safely store solid material for generations to come. </li><li>Solvent and effluent treatment: exploring alternative ways of safely treating solvent and effluents resulting from the reprocessing of spent nuclear material in a sustainable, resource-efficient manner. </li><li>Pyro waste: developing technological innovations around safely reprocessing molten salt material. This work develops UK expertise through enhanced understanding of the fuel cycle. </li><li>Fast reactor fuel recycle: developing efficient plutonium recycling routes to reduce raw material usage. Efficiently managing fast reactor material will ensure a sustainable fuel cycle. </li></ul>

Advanced Fuel Cycle Programme

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The pilot Advanced Nuclear Skills and Innovation Campus (ANSIC) is a first-of-its-kind programme for the nuclear sector. Funded by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and delivered by the <a href="https://www.nnl.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank" style="color: rgb(63, 81, 181);">National Nuclear Laboratory</a> (NNL), the campus will be based at NNL’s Preston Laboratory. ANSIC will unite industry and academia to collaborate on projects which help develop and commercialise advanced nuclear technologies in support of the long-term zero-carbon future.The campus will oversee awards of £1 million into the UK industrial and academic supply chain through a variety of competitive open calls and challenges. Technical and operational support will also be provided by NNL in the delivery of successful bids.Important on-site training and educational opportunities at the campus will help ensure the UK has the necessary skills to maintain its position at the forefront of ground-breaking nuclear research and development.Building on the UK’s long-standing nuclear expertise, ANSIC will support the nation’s nuclear sector to develop operational capacity and deliver new technologies to meet the challenges of deep decarbonisation.Two calls for innovation are now live through ANSIC. <a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/challenge" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find out more</a>.Please note that specific IP arrangements are in place for funding applications made to Game Changers for ANSIC opportunities. More information can be found in our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.gamechangers.technology/static/u/ANSIC%20funding%20FAQs%203.pdf" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ANSIC funding FAQs document</a>.