South Korea's POSCO E&C said on Monday that it signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) for cooperation on the developing high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) technology, often called the fourth-generation reactor.
This MOU is part of their efforts to expand their nuclear business, identified as a future growth driver alongside secondary batteries and hydrogen.
The HTGR utilizes helium, which is not contaminated by radiation, as a coolant and graphite as a moderator to produce high-temperature heat at 750°C.
This technology can be used for carbon-free, high-efficiency power generation, process heat supply, and hydrogen production.
The HTGR employs tri-structural isotropic particle fuel (TRISO), which prevents the release of radioactive materials even at temperatures exceeding 1600°C.
In extreme situations, such as a loss of external power or operator intervention, similar to the Fukushima incident, the reactor's safety can be ensured through natural cooling alone.
POSCO E&C plans to collaborate with KAERI in all areas, including joint research to secure proprietary designs, technology transfer, personnel support, demonstration projects, and commercialization for export.