In a collaborative effort, researchers from the Brazilian Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN) and the National Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN) have been exploring the potential of Brazil’s upcoming Brazilian Multipurpose Reactor (RMB). This new reactor, designed to be a versatile neutron source, aims to support various applications in medicine, agriculture, industry, and materials development.
The RMB, with a thermal power of 30 MW, is expected to produce a core flux of approximately 4×10^14 neutrons per square centimeter per second and a power density of 312.5 watts per cubic centimeter. This capability will enable the production of radioisotopes, material and fuel irradiation testing, and neutron beam applications. The research team, led by Luiz P. de Oliveira and including Alexandre P. S. Souza, Carlos G. S. Santos, Iberê R. S. Júnior, Barbara P. G. Silva, Marco A. S. Pereira, Frederico A. Genezini, and José A. Perrotta, investigated the demand for neutron fluxes in different irradiation targets using Monte Carlo simulations. Their findings were published in the journal Nuclear Engineering and Technology.
The study focused on the impact of a highly neutron-absorbing material, Gadolinium-157 (Gd-157), on the reactor’s performance. The results indicated that the production of Molybdenum-99 (Mo-99), a crucial radioisotope used in medical imaging, would not be affected by the presence of Gd-157. Moreover, the minimum proposed thermal neutron flux for the reactor’s activity (5.1×10^12 neutrons per square centimeter per second) was confirmed to be achievable even at maximum operational capacity. The researchers also discussed the potential production of Terbium (Tb) isotopes for nuclear medicine applications within the RMB.
For the energy sector, the RMB’s versatility could open new avenues for material testing and development, particularly for nuclear fuels and reactor components. The ability to produce medical isotopes like Mo-99 and Tb isotopes highlights the reactor’s potential to contribute to the healthcare industry, which is increasingly reliant on nuclear medicine. Additionally, the reactor’s capacity for neutron beam applications could support advanced research in materials science, benefiting various industrial sectors, including energy production and storage.
In summary, the Brazilian Multipurpose Reactor represents a significant advancement in nuclear technology, offering a multifaceted approach to addressing challenges in medicine, industry, and materials science. The research conducted by the Brazilian team underscores the reactor’s potential to meet diverse neutron flux demands, ensuring its effectiveness in a wide range of applications.
This article is based on research available at arXiv.