Solidion Technology Inc. (NASDAQ: STI) announced on March 6, 2023, that it has received a second grant from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) aimed at advancing materials research for next-generation nuclear reactors. The grant will finance the development of a carbon nanosphere material designed for use as an anti-corrosive additive in molten-salt-based heat transfer fluids, which are essential for advanced molten salt nuclear reactors.
Focus on Molten Salt Reactor Technology
The DOE-funded initiative will concentrate on creating nanofluids-based energy materials. These innovative materials consist of engineered colloidal suspensions of hollow carbon nanoparticles within conventional molten salts. This approach aims to enhance heat transfer efficiency while simultaneously minimizing corrosion risks in nuclear reactor environments. Solidion emphasized that this technology is vital for reducing costs, improving safety, and expediting the commercialization of small modular nuclear reactors, including advanced molten salt reactor designs.
Research efforts supported by the grant will be conducted in collaboration with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, a prominent research facility known for its contributions to nuclear science and engineering.
Recent Recognition and Future Prospects
This latest grant follows Solidion’s recent accolade of winning the 2025 R&D 100 Award in partnership with Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The award recognizes innovation in Electrochemical Graphitization in Molten Salts, showcasing the company’s commitment to advancing energy technology. Additionally, Solidion has secured funding from the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) to enhance the electrochemical manufacturing of high-performance graphite derived from biomass, under the agency’s competitive OPEN program.
Jaymes Winters, Chief Executive Officer of Solidion Technology, remarked, “Consecutive awards from the Department of Energy is proof positive that Solidion is not only innovative in energy storage but also in energy processes, liquids, and materials as well.” His statement underscores the company’s strategy to position itself as a leader in the evolving nuclear energy sector.
During premarket trading, shares of Solidion Technology saw an increase of 5.39%, reaching a price of $6.65, according to Benzinga Pro data. This positive market response reflects investor confidence in the company’s ongoing advancements and strategic partnerships.
As the demand for cleaner energy solutions continues to grow, Solidion’s focus on developing advanced materials for nuclear reactors could play a significant role in shaping the future of energy production. The company’s ongoing projects and collaborations signal a commitment to innovation that may help address the pressing challenges of energy efficiency and safety in nuclear technology.
