Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is an American research laboratory located in the state of Idaho. As one of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) national laboratories, INL is managed by the DOE Office of Science through a contract with Battelle Energy Alliance. The laboratory performs work in nuclear and energy research, science, and engineering.
INL was established in 1949 as the National Reactor Testing Station (NRTS) to test reactors for the civilian nuclear power program. It was later renamed the Idaho Chemical Processing Plant (ICPP), then again to its current name in 1997. INL houses several unique facilities, including the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR), which is one of the world’s most powerful research reactors, and the Materials & Fuels Complex (MFC), which contains hot cells used for handling highly radioactive materials.
The mission of INL is to discover, demonstrate, and secure innovative nuclear energy solutions that empower humanity to thrive while safeguarding our environment now and for future generations. The lab works toward this mission by conducting cutting-edge research and development in nuclear science and engineering; developing innovative technologies; demonstrating advanced reactor concepts; and providing technical support to government agencies, industry partners, and academia worldwide