The Laboratory for Zero-Carbon Energy Research, Institute of Innovative Research, Tokyo Institute of Technology promotes advanced research and development for the realization of a zero-carbon society. The Nakase Laboratory focuses on "Nuclear Innovation", transcending the existing framework of nuclear research and promoting innovative nuclear system research through an interdisciplinary approach that includes Science, Engineering, and Digital technologies. Therefore, the laboratory conducts a wide range of research, including:

1. Establishment of innovative nuclear energy systems (advanced reactors, nuclear for maritime, renewable energy concert systems)
2. Nuclear fuel cycle (nuclear fuel cycle simulation, cycle rationalization and integration, reprocessing & back-end technologies, repository design)
3. Fukushima reconstruction and remediation research (solidification of waste & debris)
4. Actinide chemistry and radiochemistry (development of extractants, chemoinformatics, medical RI)
5. Digital Management of Radioactive Materials (Safeguards & Nuclear Security, Knowledge Management, National Inventory)

The Nakase Laboratory has initiated research on a nuclear propulsion ship using molten salt fast reactors in line with the global goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and the growing expectation for the multipurpose use of nuclear power in recent years. The laboratory is focusing on the conceptual design of small reactors for ships, the market and economic feasibility (transportation economics) of introducing nuclear ships, the contribution to decarbonization, and the quantitative analysis of scenarios for introducing ships integrated with existing nuclear systems, using the Japanese nuclear ship "Mutsu" as a reference. Thus, we are challenging the establishment of truly innovative nuclear systems.

In Nakase Lab, we are developing the Integrated Nuclear Fuel Cycle Simulator NMB4.0 in collaboration with the Japan Atomic Energy Agency to envision a grand future vision of the nuclear system by integrating these cutting-edge research efforts. NMB4.0, equipped with fast computational algorithms, covers a wide range of nuclear fuel cycle processes such as fuel manufacturing, reprocessing, and disposal, and accommodates various reactor types. It allows flexible setting of combinations and parameters for different scenarios of future nuclear use.

To foster technical development while openly discussing energy and nuclear strategies, NMB4.0 has been made available as open source, and the development team is actively expanding its international presence through OECD/NEA expert meetings and more. Since its release in March 2022, it has garnered a community of over 140 users from more than 30 institutions worldwide, hosting workshops and symposiums that have been well-received. It is also being used in lectures at TokyoTech and JAEA, study sessions with local residents, and for educational purposes.

We really welcome new members! Let’s join TEAM NMB and think about the future of nuclear systems together!
NMB4.0 Channel


Documents of Nakase lab & NMB are following below.
Nakase lab
NMB4,0：Press Release