University of North Texas (UNT)

The University of North Texas (UNT), University of Michigan, Northeastern University, General Electric Research Center, and Idaho National Laboratory are researching a novel self-powered wireless differential pressure sensor for long-term, in situ, real-time monitoring of high-temperature (600 ºC) molten salt density and level for safeguarding and monitoring electrochemical processing of nuclear spent fuel. The team will use micro-electromechanical systems technology to fabricate the pressure sensor which enables measurements of great sensitivity, accuracy and high repeatability. To provide unlimited power for the sensor and wireless transceiver, a thermoelectric generator will be directly printed on the electrorefiner housing using laser additive manufacturing to scavenge the waste heat energy. The elimination of the long wires will result in significant cost savings, low maintenance, and much longer service life. This sensing technology will improve materials accountancy and associated verification activities that are key to safeguards implementation.

By enabling the secure and economical recycling of the nation’s inventory of LWR UNF, CURIE will have the following impacts: