MARVEL Instrumentation, Control, and Software Considerations

Journal Article · Fri Jan 30 00:00:00 UTC 2026 · Nuclear Technology

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/00295450.2025.2606609 · OSTI ID:3024431

Baker, Benjamin A.  ^[1]; Heim, Andrew Joseph  ^[1]; Crawford, Anthony L.  ^[1]

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1. Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)

This paper details the various I&C considerations and design decisions made throughout the MARVEL (Micro-reactor Applications Research Validation and Evaluation) project, including sensor and actuator selection, safety-related functionality, digital control hardware and software, and testing methodologies. Key challenges such as managing radiation, temperature, and space constraints are discussed, along with the trade-offs between using standard equipment and custom solutions. The successful integration of off-the-shelf components, the emphasis on minimizing safety-related instrumentation, and the lessons learned from prototyping and testing are highlighted. The authors aim to provide insights that can benefit future micro-reactor designs and emphasize the importance of real-world testing in advancing reactor technology.

• Research Organization: Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE Office of Nuclear Energy (NE)
• Grant/Contract Number: AC07-05ID14517
• OSTI ID: 3024431
• Report Number(s): INL/JOU-25-87982
• Journal Information: Nuclear Technology, Journal Name: Nuclear Technology; ISSN 0029-5450; ISSN 1943-7471
• Publisher: Taylor & FrancisCopyright Statement
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English