MMR reboot: The Kronos MMR is a high-temperature, gas-cooled microreactor that uses helium coolant and TRISO particle fuel. It has a compact, modular design that allows for flexible deployment and scalable power output.
Nano Nuclear’s Kronos project at UIUC is a reboot of a previous project by Ultra Safe Nuclear to bring the research MMR to the university campus. Nano Nuclear acquired the MMR technology after Ultra Safe Nuclear’s bankruptcy in October 2024. UIUC expects that the research reactor will position the university as a key center for energy innovation in the United States.
Next steps for the project: The new agreement between UIUC and Nano Nuclear describes the next steps for the design, construction, ownership, and operation of the Kronos MMR on the campus. The university and company will establish joint committees to oversee technical coordination, safety compliance, scheduling, and long-term operational planning for the project. UIUC will continue to support the regulatory and permitting processes with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and the Illinois state government, as well as carry out other coordination efforts as appropriate. The university will also engage with the Department of Energy regarding fuel availability and procurement options for the reactor.
Nano Nuclear will partner with UIUC on full project execution, including in the areas of detailed engineering, site preparation, reactor system installation, rigorous testing, and initial startup of the reactor.
Uses for the Kronos MMR: After the Kronos MMR becomes operational, UIUC will assume ownership and operational responsibility for the unit. The university intends to use the reactor to strengthen its research and educational programs and to provide Illinois with a technical resource that supports the state’s transition goals toward zero-carbon energy.
Nano Nuclear plans to use the Kronos MMR to collect high-resolution performance and systems-level data. These data will serve to guide further reactor optimization and inform design refinement for future commercial deployments.
Significant steps forward: Jay Yu, founder and chairman of Nano Nuclear, said of the MOU, “We are pleased to take this significant step toward the construction and operation of the first Kronos MMR modular microreactor in the United States in partnership with the University of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign. Our collaboration has already advanced key aspects of Kronos MMR development, and this MOU further reinforces the strength and long-term goals of our partnership. We look forward to continuing our work with [UIUC’s] world-class researchers and faculty as we advance this innovative reactor toward construction, testing, regulatory licensing and deployment.”
Right power source to meet the moment: Caleb Brooks, director of the Illinois Microreactor Project and an associate professor in the Department of Nuclear, Plasma, and Radiological Engineering (NPRE) at UIUC, observed, “Nuclear energy is the right power source to meet the moment for our state, our nation, and our world. We are excited to enter a new phase with this project to accelerate the deployment of advanced nuclear energy technology.”
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