인공지능 기술을 활용한 차세대 원자력 시스템의 안전성 및 경제성 강화 전략

As nuclear energy re-emerges as a critical solution for climate change and energy security, the success of next-generation reactors, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), hinges on securing both unparalleled safety and economic viability. This paper explores comprehensive strategies for leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to achieve these goals. We examine AI applications through two distinct lenses: as sophisticated mathematical tools for prediction and simulation, and as intelligent agents capable of autonomous operation. The analysis details how AI technologies—such as predictive maintenance, intelligent surveillance, accelerated simulations via surrogate models, and Large Language Models (LLMs) for knowledge management—fundamentally innovate nuclear operations and R&D. Furthermore, we discuss the technical and regulatory challenges in adopting AI, emphasizing the need for robust Verification and Validation (V&V) methodologies and a Human-in-the-Loop approach. The paper concludes that the strategic integration of AI is essential for realizing a safe, efficient, and sustainable nuclear energy future.