Thompson Odion Igunma: researcher shaping future of nuclear energy and materials Science

Thompson Odion Igunma, a distinguished researcher and Ph.D. candidate at the University of Florida, is rapidly emerging as a key figure in the fields of materials science and nuclear engineering.

Through his extensive and innovative body of work, Igunma is tackling some of the most pressing challenges in the design and durability of next-generation nuclear reactors, particularly in the context of molten salt reactors (MSRs). With a focus on corrosion resistance, advanced materials, and sustainability, Igunma’s research is paving the way for safer, more efficient nuclear energy systems.

Igunma’s recent publications—many of which he co-authored with colleagues Aderamo A. T. and Olisakwe H. C.—demonstrate his deep expertise in the intersection of materials science, nuclear reactor technology, and sustainable energy solutions.

His work, published in leading academic journals in 2024, spans a wide range of topics, from high-entropy alloys to nanostructured materials, ceramic matrix composites, and sustainable catalysis, all designed to address the unique challenges of corrosion and material degradation in extreme reactor environments.

One of Igunma’s most influential works, High-entropy alloys in nuclear reactors: A conceptual review of corrosion resistance, thermal stability, and performance optimization in molten salt applications, published in the International Journal of Engineering Research and Development, provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential of high-entropy alloys (HEAs) in next-generation nuclear reactors.

In this paper, Igunma and his co-authors explore how HEAs, with their unique composition of multiple elements, offer superior corrosion resistance and thermal stability compared to traditional alloys. “HEAs represent a significant breakthrough in materials science, especially in molten salt environments.

By exploring their behavior under radiation and extreme temperatures, we are able to identify materials that can improve the lifespan and safety of reactors,” Igunma said.

Another landmark publication, Nanostructured alloys for corrosion mitigation in nuclear energy systems, also in the International Journal of Engineering Research and Development, delves into how nanostructured alloys can be engineered to resist the corrosive effects of molten salts and radiation.

“Nanostructured materials can be tailored at the atomic level to enhance resistance to both corrosion and radiation-induced damage, making them an ideal candidate for use in MSRs,” Igunma explained. This paper outlines the cutting-edge techniques used to develop and test these alloys, offering insights into their application in nuclear reactors and other high-risk environments.

In addition to his work on high-entropy and nanostructured alloys, Igunma has also made significant contributions to the field of ceramic matrix composites (CMCs). In Ceramic matrix composites for corrosion-resistant next-generation nuclear reactor systems, published in the Open Access Research Journal of Engineering and Technology, Igunma discusses how these materials—known for their strength and resistance to extreme temperatures—can be used to combat the corrosive effects of molten salts in MSRs.

“CMCs represent one of the most promising materials for future reactors. Their ability to withstand both high temperatures and corrosive environments makes them ideal for the next generation of nuclear energy systems,” Igunma said.

Sustainability is another central theme in Igunma’s research. In Sustainable catalysis: A holistic framework for lifecycle analysis and circular economy integration in catalyst design, published in the Engineering Science & Technology Journal, he explores the integration of sustainability principles into catalyst development for industrial applications.

Igunma argues that by adopting a lifecycle analysis approach and incorporating circular economy strategies, catalysts can be designed to enhance both performance and environmental impact. “Catalyst design must go beyond efficiency. By considering their entire lifecycle—from production to disposal—we can ensure that the materials we develop contribute to a more sustainable future,” Igunma emphasized.

In his work Sustainable materials for corrosion-resistant energy harvesting: A conceptual framework for innovations in biodegradable solutions for nuclear applications, Igunma turns his attention to the development of biodegradable materials that can be used in energy harvesting systems, with applications in nuclear energy. “The future of sustainable energy solutions will involve not only renewable energy sources but also biodegradable materials that minimize environmental impact. Our research aims to identify such materials for use in nuclear systems, helping to create technologies that are both efficient and environmentally responsible,” Igunma noted.

Perhaps one of the most forward-thinking of his recent publications is Thermoelectric Materials for Mitigating Corrosion in Waste Heat Recovery of Nuclear Power Plants, published in Materials & Corrosion Engineering Management (MACEM). This paper examines the potential of thermoelectric materials to mitigate corrosion while recovering waste heat from nuclear power plants. “Thermoelectric materials allow us to address two issues simultaneously: they improve the overall efficiency of the reactor by recovering waste heat, and they reduce the corrosive impact on materials exposed to high-temperature environments,” Igunma explained.

Through these and other publications, Thompson Odion Igunma is making invaluable contributions to the fields of nuclear energy, materials science, and sustainability. His interdisciplinary approach integrates advanced computational models, innovative material solutions, and sustainability principles to develop more durable, efficient, and environmentally responsible nuclear technologies. His research not only addresses critical technical challenges in the development of molten salt reactors but also supports the broader goal of reducing the carbon footprint of energy systems worldwide.

“These publications reflect my ongoing commitment to improving the durability and performance of nuclear reactors while ensuring that we consider the environmental and long-term sustainability of the materials we use,” Igunma said. “As we look to the future of nuclear energy, it is essential that we develop materials that can withstand extreme environments while contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.”

Thompson Odion Igunma’s body of work is a testament to his dedication as a researcher, providing innovative solutions to some of the most complex challenges in nuclear engineering and materials science. With each publication, Igunma continues to push the boundaries of what is possible, driving forward the development of safer, more efficient, and more sustainable nuclear energy technologies. As his research evolves, it promises to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of nuclear power, making it a cornerstone of the clean energy transition.