SMELD: State-of-the-art Metal Melting Limiting Waste during D&D
Enabling large-scale recycling of metals from nuclear decommissioning
The SMELD project (State-of-the-art Metal Melting Limiting Waste during D&D) positions SCK CEN as a key player in the recycling of metallic materials originating from nuclear decommissioning. Through advanced melting technologies, dedicated research infrastructure and the development of innovative release methodologies, SMELD aims to reduce radioactive waste volumes while maximising opportunities for metal recycling and reuse.
Funded by the European Union through the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), and in collaboration with CRM Group, the project combines scientific research with the deployment of state-of-the-art melting infrastructure, bridging the gap between laboratory investigations and industrial-scale validation.
What SMELD achieved
SMELD investigated the behaviour of metallic materials and radionuclides during melting processes. Particular attention was given to the redistribution of radionuclides between metal, slag and off-gas streams, providing essential insights to optimise recycling strategies and minimise secondary waste generation. The project also developed methodologies to assess the safe reuse of recycled metals and to support clearance decisions in compliance with regulatory frameworks. During the project, SCK CEN and CRM Group established new expertise in nuclear metallurgy and successfully developed dedicated research infrastructure for the study of radioactive metal melting processes. Another major achievement was the successful installation and commissioning of new melting furnaces at semi-industrial and industrial scale, creating a unique research and validation infrastructure to further develop and scale up metal recycling processes.
Turning research into reality
The SMELD project has successfully completed a major step towards the large-scale recycling of metallic materials originating from nuclear decommissioning activities. By combining scientific research with the deployment of dedicated melting infrastructure, SMELD is helping bridge the gap between laboratory-scale studies and industrial-scale validation.
As part of the project, two induction furnaces supplied by ABP Induction were successfully installed and commissioned in non-radioactive mode:
- Ecoline semi-industrial induction furnace (~500 kg capacity)
- FS40 industrial induction furnace (~3.2 tonnes molten steel capacity)
Both systems successfully completed functional and melt Site Acceptance Tests (SAT), confirming their operational readiness and providing SCK CEN with a unique infrastructure for metal recycling research and process validation. The industrial-scale furnace capacity is comparable to that of established European operators active in radioactive metal melting, making it highly relevant for future large-scale applications.
Together with SCK CEN's laboratory facilities, these installations create a continuous research and development platform that enables technologies and scientific insights to be tested, validated and scaled up under conditions representative of industrial practice.
Watch exclusive footage of the cold commissioning of our large furnace.
Lasting impact
The growing wave of nuclear decommissioning across Europe is expected to generate large volumes of contaminated and activated metal over the coming decades. This creates an increasing need for efficient, sustainable and economically viable treatment technologies capable of reducing waste volumes while maximising the recovery of valuable materials.
Through SMELD, SCK CEN has strengthened its expertise in nuclear metallurgy and radioactive metal melting, while establishing dedicated research infrastructure to study radionuclide behaviour during melting processes. The project has generated valuable knowledge on metal recycling pathways, radionuclide partitioning and process optimisation, helping to address some of the key challenges associated with future decommissioning activities.
By advancing research and expanding melting capabilities, SMELD contributes to the development of a circular economy in the nuclear sector. The infrastructure, know-how and scientific insights developed during the project provide a foundation for future research programmes, industrial collaborations and innovation initiatives aimed at reducing radioactive waste, enabling safe metal recycling and lowering the overall waste management cost of decommissioning.
As decommissioning activities continue to increase throughout Europe, the SMELD legacy positions SCK CEN to support the development of next-generation radioactive metal treatment technologies and future industrial solutions for the nuclear sector.
Important milestones
2024-2025: Building expertise and infrastructure
Following the launch of the project in 2024, SCK CEN and CRM Group focused on developing the scientific and technological foundations needed for advanced radioactive metal melting research. Dedicated laboratory furnaces were designed and installed to support both cold and hot R&D activities.
The preparatory study defined the requirements for the SMELD pilot furnaces and showed that both a small-scale and a larger pilot furnace are needed. More details can be found in the public report on Milestone 248.
March 2025: Preparing for scale-up
By early 2025, the project had completed major preparatory work for future pilot-scale infrastructure and had established the technical requirements for the next phase of development. At the same time, the SMELD team actively explored future partnerships and industrial collaboration opportunities.
November 2025: Laboratory furnaces tested and approved
A major project milestone was reached when the non-radioactive laboratory furnace successfully completed its functionality tests. Research experiments started, while the radioactive furnace received the necessary approvals for operation. These achievements enabled the start of a comprehensive experimental programme investigating radioactive metal melting processes.
June 2026: Project completion
The SMELD project officially concluded in June 2026, having achieved its objective of establishing a unique R&D foundation for future developments in radioactive metal melting and recycling technologies. The expertise, infrastructure and research results developed during SMELD continue to support SCK CEN's activities in nuclear decommissioning, radioactive waste management and circular economy solutions.
From July 2026 onwards
Following the completion of the SMELD project in June 2026, SCK CEN continues to build on the expertise and infrastructure developed during the programme. Future activities will focus on expanding the scientific understanding of radionuclide behaviour during melting, validating technologies at pilot scale and fostering collaborations with industrial and research partners. The long-term ambition remains unchanged: to support the safe recycling of radioactive metals, reduce waste volumes generated during decommissioning and contribute to a circular economy for the nuclear sector.
Why SMELD at SCK CEN stands out
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SMELD at SCK CEN excels in dismantling and radioactive waste management, leveraging its strong expertise and advanced tools. Our team has extensive experience with projects like the dismantling of BR3 and cyclotrons, ensuring safe and efficient processes. By utilizing cutting-edge technology and innovative methods, we provide sustainable solutions for managing radioactive waste.
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SCK CEN offers unparalleled access to the BR2 and BR1 reactors, enabling us to test purpose-calibrated irradiated materials. This allows us to conduct precise and reliable experiments, ensuring the highest standards in material testing and development.
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With SMELD, SCK CEN boasts versatile infrastructure that seamlessly transitions from small lab tests to pilot-scale tests. This flexibility allows us to efficiently scale up experiments and processes, ensuring comprehensive testing and validation at every stage.
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SCK CEN and the SMELD project leverages extensive know-how and state-of-the-art facilities to study material properties and characterize radioactive content. Our expertise allows us to conduct detailed analyses and provide accurate characterizations, ensuring the highest standards in safety and efficiency.
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As a leading Nuclear Research Center, SCK CEN has the expertise and facilities to safely handle and work with radioactive materials. Our stringent safety protocols and advanced technology ensure that all processes are conducted with the highest standards of safety and efficiency.
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SCK CEN benefits from strong connections with companies, researchers and government agencies in the nuclear sector, both in Belgium and abroad. These collaborations enable us to stay at the forefront of technological advancements and regulatory standards.
Partner with us!
- Collaborate on pioneering R&D projects with a top nuclear research institute.
- Leverage our infrastructure: rent our specialized facilities for testing, verification and licensing.
- Ensure feasibility: benefit from expert-led assessments and applied research.
- Form strategic partnerships to drive innovation and advance radioactive metal recycling.
Join us in shaping the future of radioactive metal melting. Contact us today!