NRI is a research institution established in 1955. Nowadays, the Institute provides wide range of expertise and services for operators of the nuclear power plants in the Czech Republic and abroad, supports Czech central state institutions in the domains of strategic energy planning and development, management of radioactive waste (for the Ministry of Trade and Industry), provides independent expertise for the State Office of Nuclear Safety, performs activities in the area of exploitation of ionising radiation and irradiation services for basic and applied research, health service and industry, performs research and provides services for radioactive waste disposal, production of radiopharmaceuticals, education and training of experts and scientific specialists and performs many other activities.

A modelling and experimental effort has identified a new uranium thermochemical cycle (UTC) for the production of hydrogen from water. The peak temperature within the cycle is below 700°C – a temperature achievable with existing high temperature nuclear reactors and some solar systems using commercially available materials. This paper describes the new process and some of the experimental work. It is an early report of chemical feasibility. Much work will be required to determine engineering and economic viability.