Facilities
Enabling reactor‑based experimentation and testingTRIGA Reactor
The centerpiece of the Nuclear Engineering & Science Center is a 1-megawatt TRIGA (Testing, Research, Isotopes, General Atomics) reactor, an open “swimming pool”-type research reactor cooled by natural convection, providing passive and inherent safety. The core consists of cylindrical fuel elements reflected with graphite.
In this configuration, samples can be easily loaded and unloaded for long and short irradiations ranging from a few seconds to multiple days. Ample space is available on our mezzanine to provide monitoring capabilities during irradiation.
The reactor operates at a maximum steady-state power level of 1 megawatt (MW). At this level, the thermal neutron flux at various sample irradiation locations in the core ranges from about 1×1012 neutrons/cm2-sec to a maximum of 1.4×1013neutrons/cm2– sec. Lower flux is also possible if desired. The gamma dose on the reactor face at 1 MW is about 2×107 rad/hr.
The reactor can accommodate a variety of sample sizes and shapes for a variety of uses, including isotope production for radioactive tracers and medical applications. The open pool reactor allows flexibility for any sample.
Underwater views of the TRIGA reactor core, highlighting the reactor’s fuel elements and control rod assemblies.
Radiochemistry Lab
The radiochemistry lab has a handling cell to allow for remote handling of highly radioactive samples, a glove box for handling lower level samples in a contained environment, and several fume hoods. In addition to remote handling, samples can be repackaged in almost any solid or liquid chemical form based on user needs.
Neutron Activation Analysis And Counting Lab
Samples may be quickly transferred between the reactor and the counting laboratory through a pneumatic transfer system. The counting lab contains four high-purity germanium (HPGe) detectors and advanced gamma spectroscopy software for trace isotope identification, allowing for analysis down to parts per million (ppm) and parts per billion (ppb). Remote spectroscopy allows real time collection and analysis of gamma spectra over the internet. This opens up collaboration and educational opportunities all over the world.
Nuclear Electronics And Machine Shop
On-site electronics and machine shops are available for custom fabrication of prototype equipment and electronics for researchers and students.
- Oscilloscopes
- Advanced soldering equipment
- Lathe
- Milling services
- Welding services
