#Japan #Tokyo #Aramco #ZettaJoule #HTGR

Aramco's Commitment to Innovation in Nuclear Energy

ZettaJoule Inc., a cutting-edge startup based in Tokyo's Chiyoda Ward, focuses on implementing high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGR) as a next-generation decentralized clean energy solution. Recently, the company announced official support from Aramco Services Company, a leading energy and chemical enterprise based in the United States, for its ambitious nuclear technology project, referred to as the 'ZJ Reactor'.

Aramco, recognized as the largest energy and chemical company globally, operates in the Americas under the brand name 'Aramco Americas'. It also manages the Motiva Enterprises LLC, home to North America's largest Port Arthur refinery. The company not only supplies traditional energy but also actively invests in developing decarbonization technologies and supporting promising startups to promote energy transition and sustainable innovation.

The formal backing from Aramco was communicated through a letter addressed to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOS). In this correspondence, Aramco expressed that supporting ZettaJoule's nuclear project would communicate a strong positive message to industry stakeholders and investors about the project’s potential, thereby significantly enhancing its prospects for commercialization.

Details of the ZJ Reactor

ZettaJoule’s 'ZJ0' is designed to deliver extremely high process heat up to 950°C, surpassing traditional light-water reactors, which typically operate around 300°C. This clean, high-temperature heat produced by nuclear technology is essential for the decarbonization of industrial processes such as hydrogen production and chemical manufacturing, establishing the 'ZJ Reactor' as a reference model for future commercial deployments.

ZettaJoule's development is grounded in technology validated by the Japan Atomic Energy Agency's high-temperature engineering test reactor (HTTR). The HTTR, which achieved its first criticality in 1998 and has successfully operated at rated output since 2001, serves as a reliable foundation for this innovative advancement in nuclear safety and efficiency.

CEO Mitsuo Shimoto's Statement

Mitsuo Shimoto, CEO of ZettaJoule, expressed pride in receiving strong support from Aramco. He stated, 'Our ZJ reactor roots from Japan’s world-class high-temperature gas-cooled reactor technology. I am confident this project will lead to the societal implementation of next-generation nuclear technology, significantly contributing to decarbonization in the industrial sector and enhancing energy security.'

Future Prospects

Moving forward, the ZettaJoule group aims to strengthen its collaboration with Aramco in advancing the next-generation reactor project. They are actively exploring applications of industrial heat in oil refining processes to facilitate the implementation of HTGR. Furthermore, ZettaJoule remains committed to working closely with domestic and international partners not only to design and manufacture the advanced reactors but also to develop proprietary technologies for utilizing the heat produced from these innovative reactors.

Understanding High-Temperature Gas-Cooled Reactors (HTGR)

HTGRs represent a new paradigm in nuclear reactor technology, combining exceptional safety characteristics and output temperatures only achieved by Japan’s advancements, which can reach up to 950°C. These compact reactors have a diverse range of applications beyond power generation, including industrial process heat, hydrogen and ammonia production, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), district heating, and even seawater desalination. As industries face decarbonization challenges, HTGRs are increasingly recognized as a crucial key for achieving these objectives, making them a focal point for major tech and oil companies seeking reliable clean energy sources.

About ZettaJoule, Inc.

ZettaJoule, Inc. is committed to enhancing next-generation nuclear systems through its Japan branch. While cherishing Japan’s superior high-temperature gas-cooled reactor technology, ZettaJoule aims to evolve it further into a global standard for clean energy solutions. The company aspires to contribute to the realization of a sustainable energy society both domestically and internationally, fostering the growth of Japan’s nuclear industry and contributing to national development.

• - Established: December 2023
• - Headquarters: 1-5-1 Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
• - Technology Hub: 7th floor, 1-7-5 Jonan, Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture
• - CEO: Mitsuo Shimoto

Parent Company: ZettaJoule Inc. (USA)

• - Established: August 2023
• - Headquarters: Rockville, Maryland
• - President and CEO: Mitsuo Shimoto
• - Employee Count: Approximately 50 (including contract staff)
• - Main Investors: Globis Capital Partners, Coral Capital, Archetype Ventures, SOSV, HAX, etc.
• - Vision: Shape the future with sustainable energy solutions
• - Mission: To deploy the first global fleet of Advanced Reactors.

Join Us

ZettaJoule is actively seeking individuals who resonate with our vision and mission. If you are interested in driving this project forward together, please reach out through the provided contact form. We welcome casual discussions about potential opportunities.

Inquiries: ZettaJoule Corporate Division
[email protected]
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