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electronicsSeptember 15, 2026

Nusano's HALEU Tech: A Game-Changer for ASEAN Nuclear Energy

A new nuclear fuel production system could revolutionize energy in Southeast Asia.

New Nuclear Fuel Production System Could Transform ASEAN Energy Landscape \\[Nusano](https://www.nusano.com/), a Utah-based physics company, has been selected by the US Department of Energy (DOE) to advance a groundbreaking nuclear fuel production system. This system is designed to produce 5.9 metric tons of high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) per year from a single 1,200-square-foot unit. The implications for factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia are significant, as this technology could provide a more efficient and scalable solution for their energy needs. \\[HALEU](https://www.energy.gov/ne/nuclear-fuel-cycle/high-assay-low-enriched-uranium-haleu) contains between 5% and 20% uranium-235, making it ideal for advanced reactor designs. It allows reactors to operate longer between refueling and extract more energy from a smaller amount of fuel. For ASEAN countries, this means a more reliable and cost-effective energy source, which is crucial for the region's growing industrial sector. \\[Nusano's approach](https://www.nusano.com/) differs from traditional methods by using metallic uranium instead of fluorinated uranium gas. This eliminates several conversion steps, reducing complexity and potential hazards. The company's system can enrich natural uranium to 19.75% in a single pass, making it highly efficient. The modular design also allows for incremental expansion, providing flexibility as demand grows. \\For factories in ASEAN, the availability of HALEU could be a game-changer. In Thailand, where the government is exploring nuclear energy options, this technology could support the development of small modular reactors (SMRs). In Vietnam, which is also considering nuclear power, HALEU could help meet the country's growing energy demands. In Indonesia and Malaysia, where the need for stable and clean energy is increasing, HALEU could provide a viable alternative to traditional fossil fuels. \\The DOE estimates that US demand for HALEU could reach 50 metric tons annually by 2035. While current domestic production is below 1 metric ton, Nusano's technology aims to bridge this gap. For ASEAN, this means a potential increase in the availability of HALEU, which could drive the adoption of advanced nuclear technologies. \\In conclusion, Nusano's HALEU production system offers a promising solution for the energy challenges faced by ASEAN factories. By providing a more efficient, scalable, and safer method of producing nuclear fuel, this technology could play a crucial role in the region's energy future. Factory buyers should keep an eye on this development as it may offer a significant advantage in terms of cost and reliability.

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Editorial rewrite by ASEAN Machine team, based on public reporting from Interesting Engineering, with added ASEAN manufacturing context.

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