Sustainable nuclear graphite research powered by Diamond

Diamond Light Source will play an important role in research which aims to transform the lifecycle of graphite in nuclear energy. The project will develop vital technologies to support advances in next-generation nuclear power, a critical part of achieving net zero goals.  

The five-year ENLIGHT programme (Enabling a Lifecycle Approach to Graphite for Advanced Modular Reactors) will address two of the most pressing issues: the need to secure a sustainable domestic supply of nuclear graphite and finding solutions to manage the growing volume of irradiated graphite waste.  

By combining Diamond’s powerful synchrotron X-rays with other advanced analysis methods, the research team will observe, in unprecedented detail, how nuclear graphite changes over time. The goal is to create computer-based models that predict long-term material behaviour, enabling engineers to design safer, more efficient, and more sustainable reactor components. 

The project will be led by the University of Manchester in collaboration with the Universities of Oxford, Plymouth, and Loughborough, and is supported by an £8.2 million grant from EPSRC with around £5 million of contributions from industry partners. 

The researchers will use a range of advanced techniques including Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermal reflectance methods, focused ion beam milling, and 3D X-ray imaging. Together, these tools will allow them to link the nano- and microstructure of graphite to its thermal and mechanical properties at both small and large scales. 

“This work will draw on Oxford’s expertise in studying how materials become damaged, observing these changes directly as they happen, from the atomic level upwards,” said Professor Marrow. 

He added: “Some of the critical studies will leverage Oxford’s deep experience at national facilities such as the Diamond Light Source for synchrotron X-rays and the ISIS neutron and muon source.” 

Professor Liu said: "ENLIGHT is a true opportunity to transform the design and manufacture of nuclear graphite landscape. This will not only benefit the UK enormously, but it will also provide an alternative, globally-relevant solution for managing nuclear graphite waste. We are extremely excited being part of this important national effort." 

This collaboration showcases the strength of the UK’s national research infrastructure, where facilities like Diamond Light Source and the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source play a critical role in driving discoveries that could have lasting impact on industry, energy security, and the environment.