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2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
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.
Armando C. Souza, Flavio Aristone, Marco A. A. Cortez, Munique S. de Lima, Duilio R. Porto, Rafaela M. da Silva, Jesualdo L. Rossi
Nuclear Technology | Volume 211 | Number 8 | August 2025 | Pages 1609-1618
Rapid Communication | doi.org/10.1080/00295450.2024.2428912
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
This study investigates the potential of a W8Ni3Cu alloy as a gamma radiation shielding material for transporting highly radioactive substances. The alloy, composed of tungsten (W), nickel (Ni), and copper (Cu), was characterized using X-ray diffraction after sintering, revealing a body-centered-cubic crystal structure with an α-tungsten phase and a secondary γ-nickel-tungsten (Ni17W3) phase. The gamma radiation attenuation coefficients of the alloy were measured using a 60Co source. The results showed linear attenuation coefficients of 0.688 cm-1 for the alloy sintered at 1200°C and 0.488 cm-1 for the alloy sintered at 1300°C. These values are 34% and 53% lower than the reference value of pure tungsten (1.044 cm-1), but they still demonstrate adequate shielding properties for practical use. The findings suggest that the W8Ni3Cu alloy is a promising candidate for fabricating containers for the safe transport of radioactive material.
