The Molten Salt Thermophysical Examination Capability (MSTEC) at Idaho National Laboratory opens up new possibilities for advanced nuclear fuel science.
March 2, 2026
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The National Reactor Innovation Center (NRIC) recently announced a new testing capability that will accelerate advanced nuclear fuel research.
The Molten Salt Thermophysical Examination Capability (MSTEC) is a state-of-the-art, shielded argon glove box that allows researchers to study fuel salts at the extreme temperatures required for use in advanced molten salt reactor designs.
The data collected using MSTEC will enhance fuel cycle research and help to inform the testing and licensing of advanced molten salt reactors.
MSTEC Explained
Housed by NRIC at Idaho National Laboratory (INL), MSTEC provides specialized equipment to measure how irradiated and nonirradiated materials behave under different conditions.
Understanding the properties of fuel salts at different temperatures, and how they interact with potential reactor materials, is important for advanced molten salt reactor designs that use high-temperature chloride or fluoride salts as the fuel, coolant or both.
MSTEC offers researchers a flexible laboratory space for small-scale experiments and provides a safe environment for testing high-temperature processes, molten salts and advanced fuel compositions. Its capabilities include fuel characterization, electrochemical studies, corrosion testing and salt synthesis
“MSTEC fills a critical gap in our testing capabilities,” said Brad Tomer, NRIC director. “For the first time, reactor developers will have access to a facility that can accurately measure thermophysical properties of irradiated fuel salts at the extreme temperatures and conditions advanced reactor designs require. This data is essential for future licensing and commercial deployment.”
What's Next?
MSTEC is anticipated to attract new projects and partnerships to broaden research and development for nuclear technologies. It will also offer a training ground for scientists, engineers and operations staff, ensuring that expertise keeps pace with technology. It’s a full ecosystem — advancing research while cultivating the talent pipeline needed to sustain it.
MSTEC is strategically co-located with INL’s other world-class facilities helping to advance molten salt reactor technologies. These facilities include the Advanced Test Reactor and the Neutron Radiography Reactor, which provide unparalleled capabilities for irradiating salts, and the Analytical Research Laboratories, which enable precise isotopic and elemental analysis. This combination of specialized resources positions MSTEC as a critical hub for cutting-edge research and innovation in nuclear energy.
For more information on MSTEC, visit nric.inl.gov.