Abstract: Proliferation-resistant nuclear reactors are disclosed according to some aspects. In one embodiment the proliferation-resistant nuclear reactor comprises a plurality of spherically-shaped micro-fuel elements (MFEs), each comprising a MFE core having one or more fuel kernels, a buffer external to the fuel kernels, and one or more coatings external to the MFE core providing corrosion resistance, erosion resistance, fission product containment, or a combination thereof. The MFEs are not suspended in a solid material and each MFE is sized such that its delay time is less than its accident time. The nuclear reactor further comprises a reactor core containing at least a portion of the plurality of MEs, wherein the reactor core is configured for cross-flow of a coolant.

Abstract: The apparatus of the present invention is a plate of neutron absorbing material. The plate may have a releasable locking feature permitting the plate to be secured within a nuclear fuel assembly between nuclear fuel rods during storage or transportation then removed for further use or destruction.The method of the present invention has the step of placing a plate of neutron absorbing material between nuclear fuel rods within a nuclear fuel assembly, preferably between the two outermost columns of nuclear fuel rods. Additionally, the plate may be releasably locked in place.

Abstract: An apparatus for preparing metallic radioactive waste material for storage is disclosed. The radioactive waste material is placed in a radiation shielded enclosure. The waste material is then melted with a plasma torch and cast into a plurality of successive horizontal layers in a mold to form a radioactive ingot in the shape of a spent nuclear fuel rod storage canister. The apparatus comprises a radiation shielded enclosure having an opening adapted for receiving a conventional transfer cask within which radioactive waste material is transferred to the apparatus. A plasma torch is mounted within the enclosure. A mold is also received within the enclosure for receiving the melted waste material and cooling it to form an ingot. The enclosure is preferably constructed in at least two parts to enable easy transport of the apparatus from one nuclear site to another.