SHINE Technologies has been selected by the U.S. Department of Energy to develop artificial intelligence systems that optimize nuclear fuel recycling processes.
The Wisconsin-based fusion energy company is participating in the initiative as part of the federal Genesis mission. The United States currently holds approximately 95,000 metric tons of spent nuclear fuel that retains reusable components if processed correctly.
SHINE Technologies will work with Argonne National Laboratory during an initial phase to optimize nuclear recycling facilities using artificial intelligence. Traditional design methods evaluate each decision separately, but the new technology allows engineers to examine multiple options simultaneously while evaluating performance, product quality, and waste reduction.
Nuclear Recycling Chemical Modeling
The project relies on two chemical modeling tools previously created by Argonne National Laboratory. The AMUSE software simulates chemistry involved in fuel separation, while the ARTEMIS platform configures the structure of an entire plant.
By placing an artificial intelligence layer over both platforms, specialists can explore a broader range of complex options. The system identifies effective recycling configurations by analyzing energy trade-offs and maintains a transparent record of the reasoning behind each recommendation.
SHINE Technologies is also joining Prometheus, a national consortium led by Idaho National Laboratory. The alliance connects national laboratories with private industry to accelerate artificial intelligence adoption across the nuclear energy sector.
Consortium Access and Project Funding
Through Prometheus, SHINE Technologies will provide operational data from its recycling processes and gain early access to tools developed by the consortium. The company brings technical and regulatory experience from its Chrysalis medical isotope facility, which has received operating license reviews from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Greg Piefer, founder and chief executive officer of SHINE Technologies, said advanced technology requires large amounts of affordable energy, while artificial intelligence is helping refine the systems that supply it. If testing succeeds over the coming months, the algorithmic approach could be applied to other stages of the nuclear fuel cycle.
The project is funded through the U.S. Department of Energy Genesis mission, an initiative backed by more than $5 billion. The program combines artificial intelligence, supercomputing, quantum systems, and scientific instrumentation to advance energy innovation.
