IAEA Training Course

High Temperature Reactor Post-irradiation Examination

Background:

South Africa is leading the industrialisation of High Temperature Reactor (HTR) technology through its Pebble Bed Modular Reactor (PBMR) development programme. The qualification and validation of the spherical fuel elements through Post-irradiation Examination (PIE) is an essential function required by the National Nuclear Regulator in order to ensure the safe operation of the reactor.

The PIE work is being jointly planned by Necsa and PBMR and will ultimately be conducted in Necsa facilities.  The required infrastructure and expertise base is currently being established at Necsa.

The aim of this course is the enhanced understanding of all technical, safety and management aspects relating to the planned PBMR PIE programmes to be conducted in South Africa with commensurate improvement in technical results and cost savings.

The IAEA is funding the mission of Dr Enrique Toscano under the regional project RAF/0/029 which deals with human resources development. The Necsa Nuclear Fuel Cycle Department is sponsoring the venue and related hosting costs.

Daily attendance will vary between 25 – 40 people.