Where TRIGA® Began, Nuclear Innovation Endures

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) is developing next-generation nuclear reactors, fuels, cladding, and reactor materials to provide unmatched safety, performance, and longevity across energy, defense, space, and research applications.

Why are new nuclear materials needed now? 

Much of the nuclear fleet in the U.S. relies on fuel technology that was developed decades ago. As we ask reactors to operate longer and under more extreme conditions, we need materials that are more heat-resistant, more durable, and less likely to cause safety issues in the event of an emergency. 

How is GA-EMS approaching nuclear energy differently? 

GA-EMS is approaching nuclear energy differently by creating advanced modular reactors that use specialized and engineered materials to unlock higher efficiency and longer core life. For instance, instead of modifying older metal alloys, GA-EMS developed SiGA^™ — a ceramic-based fuel cladding, a fuel rod, that doesn’t melt or undergo runaway hydrogen-producing chemical reactions with high temperature steam.

Who uses these technologies? 

GA-EMS nuclear technologies are used by the U.S. Department of Energy, national laboratories such as INL and ORNL, federal space and defense agencies, universities and industry partners for programs involving light water reactors, advanced small modular reactors, space propulsion systems and research facilities.

What are the biggest advantages of these technologies? 

• Reduces the risk of meltdown or hydrogen explosions in emergency scenarios
• Makes it possible to reuse spent nuclear fuel instead of storing it as waste 
• Supports grid reliability with reactors that run for decades without refueling 
• Powers compact reactors for remote, space or military applications 

Where can I go to dig deeper into the technical details? 
You can explore GA-EMS’s individual technologies by clicking any of the navigation links to the left. Each page includes background, capabilities, and testing status. 

Who can I contact if I have questions? 

You can reach the Nuclear Technologies & Materials Division at NTM.INFO@GA.COM