Lightbridge begins irradiation testing of nuclear fuel at Idaho lab

RESTON, Va. - Lightbridge Corporation (NASDAQ:LTBR), whose stock has surged 173.67% over the past year despite a recent 15.97% pullback last week, has commenced irradiation testing of its enriched uranium-zirconium alloy fuel material samples in the Advanced Test Reactor at Idaho National Laboratory (INL), the company announced Wednesday.

The testing marks a significant step in the company's nuclear fuel development program conducted under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement with INL. The irradiation campaign follows the successful fabrication and loading of enriched uranium-zirconium coupon samples into an experiment assembly earlier this year.

The testing is expected to provide data on the fuel alloy's microstructural evolution and thermal conductivity properties as a function of burnup. During the campaign, some irradiated samples will be removed at various burnup levels to undergo post-irradiation examination at INL to assess performance.

"The start of capsule irradiation testing marks a pivotal step in demonstrating the performance of Lightbridge Fuel," said Dr. Scott Holcombe, Vice President of Engineering at Lightbridge. "The data generated in this phase will help us validate some key thermo-mechanical properties of our fuel alloy."

Dr. Jess Gehin, Associate Laboratory Director for Nuclear Science & Technology at INL, noted that the ATR provides "a world-class platform for evaluating advanced nuclear materials under realistic conditions."

Lightbridge is developing its proprietary fuel technology for existing light water reactors and pressurized heavy water reactors, as well as for new small modular reactors. The company states its technology aims to enhance reactor safety, economics, and proliferation resistance.

The Department of Energy's Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear program has twice awarded Lightbridge to support the development of its fuel technology, according to the company's press release statement.

In other recent news, Lightbridge Corporation disclosed its financial results for the third quarter of 2025. The company reported a significant net loss, accompanied by increased expenses, which has raised concerns about its financial trajectory. Despite achieving several technical milestones and maintaining a strong cash position, these financial outcomes have captured the attention of investors. The market's reaction underscores the importance of financial performance in influencing investor sentiment. Additionally, analysts from various firms have not provided any upgrades or downgrades following these results. The focus remains on how Lightbridge will address these financial challenges moving forward. These developments are pivotal for investors monitoring the company's progress.

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