Nuclear Plant Wi-Fi: Radiation-Proof Chip Developed

Researchers are developing a robust, fully wireless communication device designed for the challenging environment within nuclear power plants. Residual radiation, particularly after leaks like those at Japan's Fukushima plant, can disable conventional electronics. This new technology features a receiver chip that can endure up to 500 kilograys of radiation, a level 1,000 times higher than standard semiconductors can tolerate.

The prototype, presented at the IEEE International Solid-State Circuits Conference, utilizes silicon with larger transistors and minimal components to enhance radiation resistance. Empirical tests confirmed minimal performance degradation even after intense radiation exposure. This advancement is critical for the ongoing decommissioning of the Fukushima Daiichi plant, where limitations on human access necessitate extensive use of robots and drones.

Current decommissioning operations often rely on Ethernet cables, which present stability but also logistical challenges in cabling and maintenance. The new wireless chip promises to overcome these hurdles, offering stable connections in high-radiation zones. Researchers are also exploring its potential use in space and fusion research, aiming to eventually create a device capable of both transmitting and receiving signals in extreme conditions.