Smart Nuclear Technologies (control, monitoring, and optimization) in Nuclear Power Plants

The advancement of smart nuclear technologies is transforming the operation and management of nuclear power plants. By integrating cutting-edge control techniques, online real-time monitoring, and system optimization, modern nuclear facilities are achieving unprecedented levels of reliability, safety, and efficiency. Intelligent control strategies, such as adaptive and robust controllers, enable precise regulation of reactor processes under varying operational conditions. Real-time monitoring systems provide continuous insights into plant performance, allowing for early detection of anomalies and proactive maintenance. Optimization methods further enhance system stability and resource utilization, supporting flexible load-following and improved energy conversion. Together, these innovations address the complex challenges of nuclear power generation, ensuring stable and secure operation while meeting the growing demand for clean energy. The ongoing development of smart technologies is essential for the future of sustainable and resilient nuclear energy systems.Despite significant advancements in nuclear power plant technology, achieving optimal reliability, safety, and efficiency remains a complex challenge due to the highly nonlinear, time-varying, and uncertain nature of nuclear systems. Traditional control and monitoring methods often struggle to adapt to dynamic operational conditions, unexpected disturbances, and aging infrastructure, which can compromise system stability and performance. Furthermore, the increasing demand for flexible load-following and integration with renewable energy sources requires more intelligent and adaptive solutions.This research Topic aims to address these challenges by exploring the development and application of smart nuclear technologies, focusing on advanced control strategies, real-time monitoring, and system optimization. The goal is to enhance the operational reliability and stability of nuclear power plants through the integration of cutting-edge techniques such as intelligent controllers, AI-based monitoring systems, and optimization algorithms. By fostering interdisciplinary research and collaboration, this topic seeks to identify innovative approaches that can improve fault detection, predictive maintenance, and overall system performance, ultimately supporting the safe and sustainable operation of next-generation nuclear energy systems.This Research Topic welcomes original research, reviews, and case studies focused on smart nuclear technologies for control, monitoring, and optimization in nuclear power plants. Specific themes include, but are not limited to: - Advanced control strategies (such as adaptive, robust, and intelligent controllers), - Online real-time monitoring systems, - Fault detection and diagnosis, predictive maintenance, system modeling, and optimization algorithms for improved reliability and stability. - Integration of AI and machine learning in nuclear plant operations, flexible load-following, and the enhancement of safety and efficiency Manuscripts may cover theoretical developments, practical applications, simulation studies, or experimental results. We invite submissions that present innovative solutions, interdisciplinary approaches, and future perspectives for the sustainable and resilient operation of nuclear energy systems. Topic editors: Jiuwu Hui, Yongwei Chen Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/77935/smart-nuclear-technologies-control-monitoring-and-optimization-in-nuclear-power-plants