Idaho National Laboratory (INL) uses a software algorithm that Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) developed to check for flaws in additively manufactured components. This is part of the process of identifying promising metals and alloys for 3D printing the next generation of nuclear reactors. 

Qualifying new materials and manufacturing technologies for nuclear reactor components can take decades. The collaboration contributes to quicker deployment of new reactor types so nuclear energy can continue to fulfill its potential to create abundant, reliable energy. 

The ORNL-developed technology has been so successful that researchers are now training the algorithm to inspect the ceramic casings of irradiated nuclear fuel tested at INL.  

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