Back to Search Start Over

Identified Opportunities in Utilization of the European Research Reactor Fleet as a Part of the TOURR Project

Authors :
Pungerčič Anže
Cirillo Roberta
Walkiewicz Joanna
Novák Evžen
Gajewski Jacek
Szentmiklósi Laszlo
Van Puyvelde Lisanne
Starflinger Jörg
Cano Daniel
Pohlner Georg
Mikolajczak Renata
Pavel Gabriel
Snoj Luka
Source :
EPJ Web of Conferences, Vol 288, p 04013 (2023)
Publication Year :
2023
Publisher :
EDP Sciences, 2023.

Abstract

This paper discusses the current status of the European research reactor (RR) fleet and identified opportunities for its utilization. The data for this analysis was collected through a specific questionnaire from which a database of the European RR fleet was created. The questionnaire was designed to assess the degree of exploitation of different RR applications and to identify gaps and opportunities for future utilization. The results indicate that the European RR fleet is older compared to the world average, with no new research reactors built in Europe since 1992. The majority of RRs reported low levels of exploitation across all applications, and a desire to expand utilization was expressed by 78% of respondents. Lack of manpower, finance, and customers were identified as the main obstacles preventing expansion, while the need for more nuclear engineers was identified as a clear opportunity to attract people to the field. The findings of this study emphasize the need for actions to be taken to combat future needs and to improve the utilization of the European RR fleet. Overall, this study provides valuable insights for policymakers, industry professionals, and researchers working in the field of nuclear energy.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
2100014X
Volume :
288
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
EPJ Web of Conferences
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.2b1a9ee0b0be4ac2832bdf24b820d147
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1051/epjconf/202328804013