#Renovation #research #reactors #key #science #medicine
More than 220 research reactors in operation worldwidethese facilities play a crucial role in fields such as medicine, agriculture and industry, especially in production of radioisotopes for medical use. However, they face the challenge of aging, since most exceed 50 years of operation. Given this situation, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is committed to supporting countries in the effort to renew and modernize these reactors to ensure their safe and efficient operation.
Ruben Mazzi, from the IAEA, emphasizes the lack of plans in many countries to replace these reactors, highlighting the importance of keeping them in operation. The IAEA implemented the Research Reactor Safety Improvement Plan since 2001, aimed at guaranteeing high levels of security through Code of Conduct on Research Reactor Safety and support in aging management.
In addition, the IAEA offers technical advice and peer review services, including the SALTO (Safety Aspects of Long Term Operatio) methodology adapted for research reactors. This international collaboration allows us to continually evaluate and improve the safety and effectiveness of the facilities..
The missions of Evaluation of the Operation and Maintenance of Research Reactors (OMARR) and other IAEA initiatives seek to strengthen the sustainability and reliability of these reactors. These collective efforts not only contribute to the management of aging but also to the sustainable development of nuclear capacity and the infrastructure necessary for future nuclear programsensuring that research reactors continue to support scientific advancement and technological innovation globally.
