The Deep Borehole Demonstration Center (DBDC) has announced that Deep Fission, Inc., a US-based nuclear energy company that places small modular reactors (SMR) a mile underground, has joined its consortium of members.

The announcement follows Deep Fission's recent visit to one of the DBDC's test sites in Cameron, Texas, in January. During the visit, leaders from both organisations toured the facility, observed the DBDC's cutting-edge research and demonstrations, and discussed potential synergies between their technologies.

Validate deep borehole disposal as a robust and scientifically grounded solution

"We are delighted to welcome Deep Fission as a member of the DBDC," Andy Griffith, executive director of the Deep Borehole Demonstration Center, said. "Their underground reactor technology highlights their commitment to advancing innovative and practical solutions for the nuclear industry. Their expertise will be instrumental in our mission to validate deep borehole disposal as a robust and scientifically grounded solution to one of the world's most pressing challenges."

Elizabeth Muller, co-founder and CEO of Deep Fission, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration: "Joining the DBDC represents an exciting opportunity to align our groundbreaking SMR technology with a globally recognised initiative in nuclear waste disposal. Together, we aim to build public confidence in the safety and viability of deep borehole solutions while advancing the nuclear industry toward a more responsible future."

The DBDC's consortium of global partners is dedicated to demonstrating and refining deep borehole disposal as a safe and effective solution for radioactive waste. Deep Fission joins a group that brings together a rich, multi-national mixture of organisations from the public, private, and non-profit sectors, including the utility sector, national waste management organizations, and national laboratories. 

Founded in 2022 as an independent nonprofit organisation, the DBDC is dedicated to accelerating the global deployment of deep borehole disposal technologies. Through non-radioactive demonstrations, robust safety case development, and international collaboration, the Center addresses critical challenges in radioactive waste management.