Franco-Dutch nuclear startup Thorizon and Netherlands-based independent research and technology organisation TNO have launched a materials and corrosion programme to generate the experimental data and predictive models required to qualify materials for molten salt reactors.

Led by TNO, the programme will support the licensing of the Pioneer demonstrator at Petten in the Netherlands and the subsequent deployment of the Thorizon One reactor, a modular molten salt reactor designed to provide reliable carbon-free electricity and industrial heat for energy-intensive sectors.