Artificial Intelligence Revolutionizing Nuclear Industry at Idaho National Laboratory Expo
Artificial Intelligence Revolutionizing Nuclear Industry at Idaho National Laboratory
IDAHO FALLS – Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the nuclear industry, and Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is at the forefront of developing applications to streamline processes and enhance safety at nuclear power plants.
INL scientists recently showcased 15 projects on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning at an expo at the Energy Innovation Laboratory in Idaho Falls. The event aimed to highlight the incredible science happening in the field of AI and machine learning, with a focus on technologies that can be deployed by the nuclear industry.
According to a lab news release, the use of computers that mimic cognitive functions and apply advanced algorithms can help researchers analyze and solve complex technical challenges. These technologies are improving materials design for advanced reactors and enhancing nuclear power plant control rooms for increased effectiveness and efficiency.
One of the technologies on display at the expo was RAVEN, a Risk Analysis Virtual ENvironment that serves as an open-source framework for machine learning, artificial intelligence, and digital twinning. Another technology, Inspection Portal, is part of the light water reactor sustainability program and analyzes data from human-submitted reports to optimize the operation of nuclear power plants.
Brian Wilcken, a nuclear science and technology data scientist at INL, emphasized the unique capabilities of the lab, stating, “We can do things here at the INL that no one else can do. Utility companies try to do things like this. They can’t touch it. We have so much data we can train extremely powerful models.”
AI systems showcased at the expo provide image detection to read gauges, identify anomalies, and detect potential issues in nuclear plants. These advancements have the potential to reduce the need for manual checks by personnel, freeing up manpower for more critical tasks.
In addition to improving safety and efficiency, these AI systems can also evaluate the economics of different energy mixes and optimize energy output from various sources to meet electricity demand while maximizing economic benefits.
The Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Expo, now in its second year, aims to expand and collaborate with other experts in the AI space to further advance research at Idaho National Laboratory.
Katya Le Blanc, a human factors scientist at INL, expressed her excitement about the research being conducted, stating, “Seeing how this stuff actually works, being able to mess around with it, play with it, talk to the researchers, see what they’re doing and get direct access and ask them questions – that’s just exciting!”
As AI continues to transform the nuclear industry, Idaho National Laboratory remains at the forefront of innovation, developing cutting-edge technologies to enhance safety and efficiency in nuclear power plants.
