Lightbridge Secures U.S. Patent for CANDU Reactor Fuel Technology — Lightbridge Corporation

Event summary

Lightbridge received a Notice of Allowance from the USPTO for a patent covering its spirally twisted, multi-lobed fuel element technology for CANDU reactors.
The patent (U.S. Patent Application No. 18/383,668) includes 16 claims directed to fuel assemblies and nuclear reactors incorporating the proprietary design.
The technology is optimized for pressurized heavy-water reactors, with a moderator-to-fuel ratio of 2.4 or less.
This patent is part of a broader patent family extending back to a 2011 PCT application.

The big picture

Lightbridge's patent strengthens its position in the advanced nuclear fuel sector, particularly for CANDU reactors, which represent a significant market opportunity. The company's growing intellectual property portfolio underscores its differentiated technology, which aims to enhance reactor safety, economics, and proliferation resistance. This development aligns with broader industry trends toward zero-emission energy solutions and energy security.

What we're watching

Market Expansion: How Lightbridge will leverage this patent to penetrate the global CANDU reactor market, particularly in Canada and other jurisdictions with heavy-water reactor fleets.
Technology Adoption: Whether the spirally twisted, multi-lobed fuel element design will gain traction among nuclear operators seeking enhanced safety and economics.
Regulatory Dynamics: The pace at which Lightbridge can secure additional patents and regulatory approvals in key markets to support commercial deployment.