Hot work: Oregon State to test mock reactors

CORVALLIS, Ore. (AP) — A new test facility under construction at Oregon State University could pave the way for next-generation nuclear technology that would do double duty, not only generating electricity but also producing hydrogen for fuel cells.

Work is under way on a small-scale simulator of a very high-temperature nuclear reactor, known in the industry as a VHTR. The $4.8 million research project, funded by grants from the U.S. Department of Energy and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, is expected to come on line in April.