The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has accepted the initial portion of a construction permit application from Atomic Alchemy, a subsidiary of Oklo, marking a significant step toward building four nonpower isotope production reactors at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). The request, now posted for public review, seeks authorization for a new category of specialized reactors focused on isotope manufacturing rather than electricity generation.
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Atomic Alchemy, acquired by Oklo in 2024, has been advancing preparations at INL after beginning site characterization this June. The company plans to build its 15-MWt Versatile Isotope Production Reactor (VIPR) system, designed to supply isotopes for medical treatments, space missions, defense technology, and industrial uses. The rapid growth of these sectors has created a rising demand for stable domestic isotope sources, positioning the project as a potential solution to longstanding U.S. supply challenges.
A preliminary safety analysis report, submitted September 12, is the first part of the application. It seeks approval for a facility with up to four VIPR units, which are similar in design to pool-type research reactors currently in use. According to Atomic Alchemy, VIPR is engineered to produce more than 40 different isotopes at low operating cost, offering advanced production capacity in a compact footprint.
The NRC noted that Atomic Alchemy plans to file the environmental portion of its application within the next several months. After construction approval, the company will still need separate operating licenses before deploying any reactor systems.
NRC staff are now examining whether the submitted application is complete and acceptable for processing. If cleared, the agency will begin a full technical review and officially docket the application. The next phase includes a public notice offering the chance to request a hearing before the Atomic Safety and Licensing Board, a critical stage preceding construction approval.
The NRC also highlighted that ongoing technical discussions with the company about the VIPR design are publicly documented. These interactions are available via the agency’s website for transparency as the regulatory process unfolds.
Originally reported by Nuclear News in ANS.
