Ampera has achieved a major milestone by completing the production of what it said is the first full-scale, 3D-printed nuclear reactor module.

The Florida, US-based nuclear reactor company, which is developing a factory-built thorium nuclear reactor, said the first nuclear module unit, which includes the core and pressure vessel, “sets the foundation for factory-built, mass-produced nuclear energy”.

Ampera chief executive officer and founder Brian Matthews said: “The advanced technology and additive manufacturing used demonstrate a clear commercial path for new nuclear technology coming to market in an accelerated manner.”