Solvay and AREVA have signed a cooperation agreement to explore new uses for thorium—an abundant element often found alongside rare earths and uranium. The partnership focuses on responsible management of existing thorium stocks in France and launches a joint R&D program to study its potential as a complementary nuclear fuel.

Both companies possess thorium produced as a byproduct of rare-earth and uranium extraction. The new initiative aims to evaluate how this material could fit into future reactor cycles, offering an alternative to traditional uranium and plutonium fuels.

AREVA mining executive Olivier Wantz called the partnership a natural fit with the group’s sustainability goals and a step toward expanding future nuclear-fuel options. Solvay’s Xavier Houzard said the agreement reinforces long-term resource stewardship and opens the door to new industrial opportunities built around thorium.