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The Idaho National Laboratory (INL) has launched the Molten Salt Thermophysical Examination Capability (MSTEC) to support the development of next generation nuclear reactors. MSTEC is a shielded argon glove box intended for handling irradiated and nonirradiated actinide materials, focusing on high temperature liquid fuel salts.

This facility will enable researchers and companies to obtain critical data on fuel salt performance under operational conditions, essential for advancing reactor designs. MSTEC integrates specialized measurement instruments and flexible lab space for small-scale experiments, enhancing INL's position as a hub for molten salt reactor research. The facility will also train future scientists and engineers in actinide technologies.