![Yoon Young-jun right CEO of Hyundai Engineering Construction and Joo Han-gyu president of the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute pose after signing a business agreement on June 12 2024 Courtesy of Hyundai EC](https://image.ajunews.com/content/image/2024/06/12/20240612171013687444.jpg)
The two entities will develop sodium-cooled fast reactors (SFRs) that use fast neutrons to generate fission and employ liquid sodium as a coolant. They will additionally collaborate on commercialization and export initiatives, reciprocal personnel assistance, and consultation.
SFRs are gaining attention as fourth-generation reactors due to their ability to recycle used nuclear fuel, according to Hyundai E&C. It enhances uranium utilization rates and significantly reduce the amount of high-level radioactive waste.
Since 2022, the two parties have collaborated across various areas including light-water reactor-based SMRs and the utilization of nuclear energy for hydrogen production.
"Through diversified collaboration, we will lay the groundwork for energy security and vigorously explore opportunities in international markets to strengthen our foothold in the emerging global energy landscape," Hyundai E&C said in a press release.