Company Filing History:
Years Active: 2002
Title: Innovations in Nuclear Fuel Management by Mark A Williamson
Introduction
Mark A Williamson is an accomplished inventor based in Los Alamos, NM (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of nuclear energy, particularly in the management and transmutation of spent nuclear fuel. His innovative approach aims to enhance the efficiency and safety of nuclear power generation.
Latest Patents
Williamson holds a patent for an "Accelerator-driven transmutation of spent fuel elements." This invention describes an apparatus and method for transmuting higher actinides, plutonium, and selected fission products in a liquid-fuel subcritical assembly. The process allows for the enrichment of uranium, providing new fuel for conventional nuclear power plants. The invention utilizes an accelerator to supply the additional neutrons necessary for these processes. The size of the accelerator required for fuel cycle closure is contingent upon the neutron efficiency of the supported reactors and the neutron spectrum of the transmutation apparatus.
Career Highlights
Williamson's work has focused on the treatment of spent fuel from light water reactors (LWRs) using uranium-based fuel. His research indicates that this approach necessitates the largest accelerator power. In contrast, neutron-efficient high-temperature gas reactors (HTGRs) or CANDU reactors require less accelerator power, especially when thorium is incorporated into the newly generated fuel. His innovative designs for fast spectrum actinide transmutation apparatus leverage accelerator-produced source neutrons, maximizing the utilization of actinide-generated fission neutrons.
Collaborations
Williamson has collaborated with notable colleagues in his field, including Francesco Venneri and Ning Li. Their combined expertise has contributed to advancements in nuclear fuel management and safety.
Conclusion
Mark A Williamson's contributions to nuclear energy through his innovative patent on spent fuel transmutation highlight the potential for improved efficiency and sustainability in nuclear power generation. His work continues to influence the future of energy management.