Nuclear fusion

Sheffield University and the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL) have signed a collaborative agreement to share nuclear expertise in areas such as radioactive waste immobilisation and disposal.

The university’s Immobilisation Science Laboratory (ISL) currently receives support from the NNL. However, the latest agreement will extend this partnership to include the development of processes such as vitrification, cementation and the use of ceramics in the treatment of nuclear waste to allow for long-term storage.

The partnership will see the university undertake initial research with the NNL supporting further project development. Both organisations will work to secure funding from sources such as industry partners, the European Union (EU), governments and research councils.

In addition to providing project support, the NNL will contribute to course content at the university by covering waste immobilisation technology through lectures, seminars and workshops. Students will also have an opportunity to apply for bursaries, awards and vocational placements at NNL.