Sellafield Ltd is marking 10 years of its Game Changers programme, an initiative designed to introduce new ideas and technology to the UK's nuclear clean-up operations. The programme connects Sellafield with innovators from various sectors, providing a pathway for new technologies into the nuclear industry.
The programme, delivered by FIS360 in partnership with the United Kingdom National Nuclear Laboratory (UKNNL), has supported hundreds of projects. These projects aim to improve safety, reduce hazards, and save money in nuclear site clean-up.
Examples of technologies developed through the programme include a Micro Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) from Ice9 Robotics, capable of navigating narrow openings to capture data from hazardous areas. Serac Imaging Systems, in partnership with Loughborough University, developed Seracam, which overlays radiation data onto live video for real-time contamination monitoring. Additionally, Sensor Driven developed Smart Cans, a radiation-tolerant sensor system for monitoring nuclear storage cans.
Looking ahead, the Game Changers programme will focus on scaling up successful technologies, speeding up their deployment, and attracting more innovators to the nuclear sector. Robin Ibbotson, Sellafield Ltd’s chief technology officer, stated that the programme helps deliver safer, faster, and more cost-effective operations.