Materials for Sustainable Nuclear Energy: A European Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda for All Reactor Generations

Nuclear energy is presently the single major low-carbon electricity source in Europe and overall expected to maintain (perhaps eventually even increase) its current installed power from now 2045. Long-term operation (LTO) a reality essentially all nuclear European countries, when planning phase out. New builds are planned. Moreover, several including non-nuclear or phasing out ones, have interests next generation systems. In this framework, materials material science play crucial role towards safer, more efficient, economical sustainable energy. This paper proposes research agenda that combines modern digital technologies with practices pursue change of paradigm promotes innovation, equally serving different positions throughout Europe. chooses overview structural fuel used reactors, as well their wider spectrum for summarising relevant issues. Next, it describes approaches common any (including classes not addressed here, such concrete, polymers functional materials), identifying each them goal. It concluded among these goals development structured qualification test-beds acceleration platforms (MAPs) operate under harsh conditions. Another goal multi-parameter-based health monitoring based on non-destructive examination testing (NDE&T) techniques. Hybrid models suitably combine physics-based data-driven behaviour prediction can valuably support developments, together creation population centralised, “smart” database materials.