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August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
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The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
Jean-Yves Colle, Philipp Pöml, Jacobus Boshoven, Rudy J. M. Konings
Nuclear Technology | Volume 211 | Number 5 | May 2025 | Pages 1103-1110
Note | doi.org/10.1080/00295450.2024.2377012
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The distribution of U and Pu of a mixed-oxide fuel sample is analyzed by Raman spectroscopy and electron probe microanalysis, with the goal of comparing the distribution maps from the two techniques. Qualitatively, the maps reveal the same features of Pu-rich agglomerates and the near Pu-free UO2 matrix, and the differences between the derived absolute concentrations are within 10%. Differences are likely due to a shift in the Raman signal originating from the local stoichiometry variation or self-irradiation damage.