Researchers build Wi-Fi chip that can operate inside a nuclear reactor — receiver uses special materials and design to withstand high doses of radiation for at least six months

Researchers at the Institute of Science Tokyo have developed a Wi-Fi chip designed to operate inside nuclear reactors, capable of withstanding high doses of radiation for at least six months. This chip is crucial for enabling robots to work in contaminated areas for reactor decommissioning, addressing the limitations of traditional silicon-based semiconductors that are vulnerable to nuclear radiation interference. By reducing the number of transistors and using specific materials like inductors, the chip can endure radiation levels equivalent to 500,000 grays over six months. The team is also working on a radiation-resistant Wi-Fi transmitter to complement the receiver's capabilities in hostile environments.