PyroGenesis Signs Contract Toward the Use of Plasma in the Treatment of Low-Level Radioactive Waste

Executive Summary

• PyroGenesis Inc. announced the signing of an initial design‑phase contract with a European organization (name withheld) to develop a plasma‑based furnace for low‑level radioactive waste treatment.
• The four‑month engineering study will define technical specifications, sizing and design parameters for a potential full‑scale plasma furnace and peripheral equipment.
• The agreement positions PyroGenesis to capture growing demand for low‑carbon, incineration‑free waste‑treatment solutions as EU nuclear capacity expands.

Key Details

• Contract Scope: Engineering study, simulations and detailed design of a plasma torch furnace versus an electric arc furnace; includes peripheral component specifications.
• Timeline: Approximately 4 months to complete the design phase.
• Strategic Rationale: Anticipated increase in low‑level (LLW) and very‑low‑level waste (VLLW) in the EU—together ~90 % of stored radioactive waste—as nuclear capacity grows from 98 GWe (2025) to ~109 GWe by 2050.
• Customer Profile: Long‑standing European entity experienced in nuclear decommissioning and radioactive material storage; identity kept confidential for competitive reasons.
• Technology Highlight: Utilization of PyroGenesis’ ultra‑high temperature plasma torch technology to create an all‑electric furnace offering low‑carbon, non‑incineration waste processing.
• Market Context: EU derives ~24 % of electricity from nuclear power; ~100 reactors across 12 countries; LLW accounts for ~61 % and VLLW ~30 % of stored radioactive waste volumes.

Notable Quotes

“With the renewed emphasis on nuclear power around the world, the need for systems that can safely process and treat low‑level radioactive waste should continue to grow,” said Mr. P. Peter Pascali, President and CEO of PyroGenesis.
“All‑electric plasma furnaces designed and built by PyroGenesis represent a potential opportunity for low carbon, incineration‑free solutions that can reduce the burden on landfills and other types of radioactive handling options.”