Laser Enrichment
Laser enrichment selectively excites U-235 in UF6 using tuned lasers, enabling efficient isotope separation. SILEX process by Global Laser Enrichment (GLE) promises 50-100x lower energy than centrifuges.
AVLIS/SILEX variants; GLE's Molecular Laser Isotope Separation under DOE review. Demonstrated 4% LEU; potential for HALEU. Not yet commercial; proliferation-resistant claims debated.
Why it matters now
Laser tech could alleviate HALEU shortages for SMR licensing in 2025-2026. DOE funding and data center demand position it for investment breakthroughs.
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GLE