Fusion Fuel Cycles Inc. (FFC) and OpenStar Technologies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on the design, development, testing, and deployment of fuel cycle technologies for fusion applications.
The partnership focuses on developing fuel cycle systems tailored to OpenStar's levitated dipole devices. OpenStar is currently building its Māui prototype, which the company expects to provide the final data needed to inform the design of a grid-scale fusion power plant in the 2030s.
FFC brings expertise in fuel cycle component design, tritium handling, licensing, and costing. In return, OpenStar's Māui device is expected to function as a low-cost volumetric neutron source, giving FFC access to realistic fusion test conditions for validating its systems. The two companies will also explore co-location and staff exchange opportunities to support integration efforts.
FFC is a joint venture between Canadian Nuclear Laboratories and Kyoto Fusioneering, combining over 70 years of tritium research experience with a startup-oriented approach. OpenStar, founded in 2021 in New Zealand, previously achieved its first plasma with its Junior prototype and is advancing toward its next device, Tahi, before moving on to Māui.
The collaboration reflects a broader trend of fuel cycle specialists partnering directly with fusion developers to mature the technologies needed for commercial operation.