UK’s £13m ENLIGHT Programme
Nuclear Graphite Innovation is central to the UK’s strategy for developing advanced modular reactors and strengthening long-term energy security. Graphite is a critical material in nuclear engineering, valued for its ability to moderate neutrons and withstand extreme operating conditions. A new £13 million programme, ENLIGHT, will accelerate research into next-generation graphite materials that are more durable, sustainable, and suited to the challenges of modern reactor design.
(University of Manchester announcement)
Collaborating Institutions and Industry Partners
The programme is led by the University of Manchester, with collaboration from the Universities of Oxford, Plymouth, and Loughborough. Together, the partners will explore the full lifecycle of graphite — from design and manufacture through to performance in harsh reactor conditions and eventual recycling.
The funding package includes an £8.2m grant from EPSRC alongside over £5m in industry contributions, highlighting strong cross-sector commitment.
Why Graphite Matters in Nuclear Reactors
Graphite plays a vital role in nuclear reactors, serving as both a moderator and a structural material. However, it must withstand extreme temperatures, neutron radiation, and long operational lifetimes. Designing next-generation graphite materials will enable safer, more efficient, and more sustainable advanced modular reactors (AMRs).
Innovation in Materials Science
The ENLIGHT team will use advanced computational modelling, new manufacturing methods, and materials testing to design graphite with improved durability. This research is expected to have ripple effects across the energy sector, feeding into standards and regulatory frameworks for future nuclear plants.
Opportunities for UK Engineering
The UK’s ambition to scale up nuclear generation depends on the development of new materials and testing capabilities. Programmes like ENLIGHT create opportunities for specialist engineering firms to provide design, prototyping, and validation expertise for graphite and other critical systems.
CNR’s Role in Test and Design Support
At CNR, we have extensive experience in designing and building bespoke test rigs and specialist machinery for advanced materials. Our team can support custom jig and fixture design for precision machining and testing, while also providing complete design and analysis services. This expertise enables us to help researchers and industry partners address the demanding testing requirements of new materials, components, and mechanisms — including those at the forefront of nuclear graphite innovation.
Note: This article is for general information only
