European advanced reactor developer Newcleo has begun installation of its Precursor non-nuclear test facility at the Brasimone research centre in Italy, marking progress in development of its lead-cooled fast (LFR) reactor technology, chief executive Stefano Buono said.

The Precursor installation is designed as a pool-type demonstrator to support development of Newcleo’s commercial lead-cooled fast reactor designs, with the company aiming to validate key systems and operational processes ahead of nuclear deployment.

The facility is expected to generate electricity using a turbine supplied by Fincantieri, in what the Buono said would be a first-of-a-kind configuration for a non-nuclear lead-cooled test installation.