Research Outline
High Safety and Security Technologies Supporting Flexible Use of Nuclear Energy
The use of small and medium-sized reactors with strong inherent safety features greatly enhances the flexibility of nuclear power, such as variable power and mindispersive use, but it also requires enhanced countermeasures against new threats such as nuclear terrorism. In addition to prevention, resilient nuclear energy systems research is being conducted to prevent serious consequences even if an event occurs. Safety and security enhancements by design, such as accident tolerant fuels and fuels and systems with strong proliferation resistance, are being pursued.
Pursuit of Nuclear Nonproliferation Science and Technology
Science and technology to prevent the diversion of nuclear materials to weapons are studied. We are developing simple and accurate tomography methods using gamma and neutron radiation emitted from nuclear fuel materials, and interrogation detection methods using high-energy photon beams on heavily shielded nuclear materials. These techniques will contribute to early detection of illegal transfer of nuclear fuel materials and security of free and flexible use of nuclear energy.