The National Center for Nuclear Research (NCBJ) plays a key role in the development of nuclear technologies in Poland. Its activities are of vital importance to energy, medicine and science. Through international cooperation and innovative projects, Poland is strengthening its position in the European nuclear sector.
HTGR-POLA project – a new era of energy security
NCBJ has developed a concept for a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor – HTGR-POLA. This project, carried out in cooperation with the Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA), involves the construction of a 30 MW thermal research reactor. Its goal is to provide process heat for industry, which could significantly increase the country’s energy security. Work is currently underway to prepare a basic design and a preliminary safety report, which are necessary for this investment.
MARIA reactor – a pillar of medical isotope production
The MARIA research reactor, which has been in operation for more than 50 years, is one of NCBJ’s most important facilities. It is crucial in the production of radioisotopes used in nuclear medicine. It produces, among other things, molybdenum-99, which decays to technetium-99m and is widely used in diagnostic imaging, and lutetium-177, used in cancer therapy. Thanks to the MARIA reactor operations, Poland is able to export these isotopes to more than 80 countries around the world, demonstrating its global importance.
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Nuclear reactor simulator – an innovative educational tool
To meet the educational and training needs of the nuclear sector, NCBJ has also developed a nuclear reactor simulator. This advanced computer tool enables realistic simulations of reactor operation, covering thermoshydraulic aspects, reactor physics and safety systems. The simulator is used both in the training process for future nuclear engineers and in educational workshops for students and professionals. It allows participants to gain practical experience under controlled conditions, which contributes to raising safety standards in the nuclear power industry.
NCBJ’s innovative initiatives underscore Poland’s significant role in the European nuclear sector. The organization is focused on implementing innovative projects, such as HTGR-POLA, which have the potential to transform Poland’s energy sector. The MARIA research reactor remains a key component of its operations, providing access to advanced medical isotopes for cancer diagnostics and therapy.
NCBJ’s vision for development is to expand its activities in the areas of education, research and international cooperation. A priority for the next few years will be the deployment of modern research reactors and the development of modular reactor technology that can meet the needs of the energy transition. The center also plans to intensify its efforts to improve the skills of specialists, including by expanding training programs and increasing the availability of reactor simulators.
NCBJ also intends to develop partnerships with the world’s leading research institutions, particularly in the fields of particle physics and fusion energy sources.
Sources: NCBJ, NaukawPolsce / cover photo: NCBJ
