A team of researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a new underwater robot that will explore deeper into nuclear reactors than ever before. It has been heralded as a major breakthrough in robotic technology; and more importantly, could usher in a new era of improved safety and maintenance in nuclear power plants worldwide.
The specialised robot will voyage deep into the underground pipe network that runs beneath a nuclear reactor, and will penetrate into zones inaccessible to humans due to their deadly toxicity. The remote device will then be able to identify signs of damage and corrosion around the pipeline, as well performing rigorous checks for hazardous materials, leaks and spills.
This innovation comes after a damning report published by the Associated Press (AP) in June, on the general condition of nuclear reactors in the United States over a 12 month period. The study indicates that several reactors experience “unrelenting wear” and damage over time; but more disturbing than this, the evidence shows that 75% of nuclear power plants in the United States are leaking radioactive material into pipes used for carrying water. As a result, toxic waste is contaminating groundwater near to the nuclear reactors.
The energy industry is limited when it comes to detection and prevention somewhat, as getting to these problem areas can be near impossible with the space restrictions and the highly poisonous radiation. It is for this reason that MIT feels their robot is the ideal solution. The small, circular robot is the perfect size and shape to manoeuvre around the pipes with ease, and will be able to find potential hazards with its sensory equipment. Also, the subaquatic robot is built to survive in terribly hostile atmospheric conditions, in places where humans would perish in seconds, and it has an integrated flotation system and valve steering so it can be operated easily underwater.
So why is this robot so attractive to the energy industry? Well, after it has served its purpose, workers can simply throw it away. MIT have designed the vessel so that it is disposable and will not pose a threat to humans after contacting the extremely dangerous radiation underground. The robots will continue for a few missions before they are retired permanently from service. Essentially then, the purpose of MIT’s research is to come up with a robot that is easy to manufacture, easy to use, and, most importantly, a cheap solution to the energy industry’s expensive problem.