First Hydrogen Launches SMR Technical Research with the University of Alberta to Select Molten-Salt Nuclear Fuel for SMRs

Executive Summary

• First Hydrogen Corp. has launched a focused technical research program with the University of Alberta to identify non‑radioactive surrogate molten‑salt fuel mixtures for future lab‑scale SMR prototypes.
• The project will evaluate thermophysical behavior, availability, regulatory constraints and procurement options of candidate salts, guiding subsequent R&D steps such as lab setup, test planning and supplier engagement.
• Company leadership highlights the work as a de‑risking step toward commercial‑scale small modular reactors that could power data centres, AI workloads and green hydrogen production.

Key Details

• Research Partnership: University of Alberta, led by Prof. Muhammad Taha Manzoor, collaborating with First Hydrogen’s technical advisors.
• Objective: Select surrogate molten‑salt mixtures that mimic uranium‑bearing fuel salts for near‑term lab evaluation without using radioactive material.
• Scope of Review:
• Thermophysical properties (melting point, viscosity, heat capacity, etc.)
• Availability and supply chain considerations (tariffs, export controls, regulatory requirements)
• Suitability for early prototype development and future commercial scale‑up.
• Project Phases:
  1. Design & design optimization of surrogate mixtures.
  2. Detailed analysis by Prof. Manzoor’s team to rank candidates.
  3. Planning for lab‑scale testing, equipment procurement, and supplier engagement based on selected surrogates.
• Strategic Rationale: De‑risk future SMR fuel development, support First Hydrogen’s vision of clean energy for data centres, AI, and green hydrogen production.
• Quotes:
• Dr. Muhammad Taha Manzoor: “We are excited to officially kick‑start this project on molten salt fuels with First Hydrogen… incorporating low‑hazard approaches into our lab‑scale experimentation.”
• Balraj Mann, CEO & Chairman: “This non‑radioactive work helps us de‑risk future R&D by identifying practical surrogate salts for lab prototypes… aligns with our longer‑term vision of pairing firm, clean energy for data centres, AI, green hydrogen production while also providing a source of fuel for use in all SMRs.”
• Industry Context: Cited IEA “Energy and AI” report projecting global data‑centre electricity demand to rise from 415 TWh (2024) to 945 TWh by 2030, underscoring the need for scalable clean power solutions.

Notable Quotes

• “We intend to bring in world‑class researchers and incorporate low‑hazard approaches into our lab‑scale experimentation while supporting First Hydrogen's future objectives for molten salt fuels in SMRs.” – Dr. Muhammad Taha Manzoor
• “This non‑radioactive work helps us de‑risk future R&D… aligns with our longer‑term vision of pairing firm, clean energy for data centres, AI, green hydrogen production while also providing a source of fuel for use in all SMRs.” – Balraj Mann, CEO

Materiality Assessment: Material – Positive (the announcement signals a substantive R&D milestone that could materially affect the company’s future technology roadmap and market positioning).