- LIS Technologies is acquiring CRISLA Inc., a developer of patented laser technology with applications in uranium enrichment and more.
- The acquisition aligns with efforts to enhance uranium enrichment capabilities in the US, critical for nuclear power generation and security.
- Jeff W. Eerkens and Christo J. Liebenberg, pioneers in laser enrichment, will play key roles in LIS Technologies Inc.
LIS Technologies Inc. (LIST) has announced an acquisition deal with CRISLA Inc., both developers of patented laser technologies that can be used for uranium enrichment. CRISLA’s technique, protected by a U.S. patent, enriches uranium in a low-pressure chamber and has potential applications in nuclear fuel, medical research, and semiconductor manufacturing.
Upon acquisition completion, Dr. Jeff W. Eerkens, known as the pioneer of Laser Enrichment of UF6, will serve as LIST’s Chief Technical Officer. Dr. Eerkens has vast nuclear expertise, notably in uranium enrichment and nuclear reactor technologies. Christo J. Liebenberg, with over 35 years in advanced laser systems, will become the new CEO. Liebenberg has been pivotal in optimizing the Molecular Laser Isotope Separation process and has played significant roles in classified laser enrichment projects worldwide.
Dr. Eerkens emphasizes the urgency to address the U.S.’s limited uranium enrichment solutions. He believes the merger accelerates the CRISLA laser enrichment process, essential given the current geopolitical landscape and climate change issues. Liebenberg adds that CRISLA’s laser enrichment will likely be the most economical solution for producing both traditional and advanced reactor fuel.
Raw uranium goes through a series of processing stages to be usable in reactors. Russia dominates the global uranium market, providing almost half of the enriched uranium to U.S. reactors between 1993 to 2013. The U.S.’s heavy reliance on Russia is seen as a security risk by officials.
In response, the U.S. government is taking action. A bill has been proposed to prohibit importing Russian-origin uranium. Additionally, legislation is being pushed to boost the U.S.’s domestic nuclear fuel production capacity. $700 million has been allocated to support the development of a domestic uranium supply chain. Furthermore, the HALEU Consortium was initiated in 2022 to promote domestic research and use of high-assay low-enriched uranium.
LIS Technologies, based in the U.S., is at the forefront of laser technology, with its laser processes providing more efficiency and competitive costs. The company’s primary focus is on producing High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium for Small Modular Reactors, among other applications. The team comprises esteemed nuclear experts and industry professionals, maintaining solid ties with both governmental and private nuclear sectors.
