Name of the Project
Multipurpose fast-neutron research (MBIR) reactor project.

Location
The project is being built at the Research Institute of Atomic Reactors (NIIAR) in Dimitrovgrad, Ulyanovsk region, Russia.

Project Owner/s
IRC MBIR Rosatom.

Project Description
At 150 MWt the multipurpose sodium-cooled reactor will be the most powerful research reactor in the world. The MBIR reactor is expected to provide the nuclear industry with modern and technologically advanced research infrastructure for the next 50 years.

The MBIR reactor will make it possible to solve a range of research problems to support the development of new NPPs, including fast reactors based on closing the nuclear fuel cycle.

It will replace the BOR-60 experimental fast reactor that has been in operation at the NIIAR site since 1969.

It will be a multiloop research reactor capable of testing lead, lead-bismuth and gas coolants. It will operate on mixed uranium and plutonium oxide fuel.

A comprehensive research reactor unit with high neutron flux can neither be small in size nor modular in design; high costs are, therefore, unavoidable.

This factor has contributed to the idea that has been promoted by the International Atomic Energy Agency, which advocates for the creation of shared facilities, where one reactor can service the needs of many countries.

Potential Job Creation
The project is expected to create 2 000 jobs during construction.

Capital Expenditure
Not stated.

Planned Start/End Date
The MBIR is expected to start operation in 2027.

Latest Developments
World Nuclear News reported on August 30 that a pilot batch of fuel elements has successfully passed acceptance tests for compliance with the technological and design documentation for the research reactor. 

Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
AEM Technology (RPV).

Contact Details for Project Information
IRC MBIR Rosatom, tel +8 495 180 31 02 or email ircmbir@rosatom.ru.