The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has called for the renewal and modernization of nuclear reactors to ensure continued performance in an effective and safe manner. More than two-thirds of the reactors have been in operation for 30 years.
According to an IAEA statement, November 13th, 2019, this issue will be discussed extensively from 25 – 30 November at the IAEA’s International Technical Meeting on Research Reactors: “Addressing Challenges and Opportunities to ensure Effectiveness and Sustainability”, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
The agency explained that the age of research reactors is usually determined by the need to use and comply with modern safety requirements, and most of its systems and components can be replaced, renovated or updated without great difficulty. Renewal and modernization should not be limited to systems and components only, operators should review safety procedures, in accordance with IAEA safety standards, to prevent interruption of research reactor services.
