Chicago Construction News staff writer
NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on the development, construction, and operation of a KRONOS MMR™ micro modular reactor on the university’s campus.
The agreement builds on an existing research partnership between the company and the university, which has supported the design and regulatory licensing of the KRONOS MMR™ prototype. The new MOU lays out the next steps for construction, ownership, and operation of the advanced reactor as an on-campus research facility.
The KRONOS MMR™ system is a high-temperature, gas-cooled microreactor using helium coolant and TRISO particle fuel. Its modular design allows flexible deployment, scalable power output, and enhanced safety features.
The project aims to demonstrate the commercial viability of NANO Nuclear’s technology, advance Illinois’ carbon-reduction goals under the state’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, and position the university as a hub for energy innovation. Upon completion, the university will assume operational responsibility and collect data to support research, education, and state energy planning.
Jay Yu, founder and chairman of NANO Nuclear, said the partnership will help advance the reactor toward construction, testing, regulatory licensing, and deployment. University officials said the project will provide valuable experience and data for students and researchers in nuclear engineering.
The collaboration includes joint steering committees for technical coordination, safety compliance, scheduling, and long-term operational planning. NANO Nuclear will also expand its Oak Brook development facility in Illinois, adding engineers to support the KRONOS MMR™ program.
