Chinese and Vietnamese scientists are ready to conduct research on the MBIR reactor under construction in Dimitrovgrad, Russia. This involves materials science experiments, reactor physics, and research in controlled thermonuclear fusion. Rosatom stated that the technical capabilities of the facility allow such projects to be carried out at a high scientific level.
The Dalat Nuclear Research Institute (VINATOM, Vietnam) presented areas of work in materials science and reactor physics. The Institute of Plasma Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP, China) proposed a research program in controlled thermonuclear fusion.
In addition, the integration of the capabilities of two large Russian scientific facilities – the MBIR and PIK reactors – is being discussed. According to Igor Tretyakov, Chief Designer of Research and Isotope Reactors and Director of the JSC NIKIET department, the use of different types of neutrons, experimental facilities, and research methods can provide a synergistic effect for solving both applied and fundamental scientific problems.
MBIR is a multi-purpose 150 MW sodium-cooled fast neutron research reactor. It is being built in Dimitrovgrad at the site of JSC SSC RIAR as part of the national project "New Atomic and Energy Technologies."
The reactor is designed for experimental work, radioisotope production, creation of modified materials, and testing of new types of equipment and technological systems. An International Research Center has already been established on its basis in the format of an international consortium.
The Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, the Institute of Nuclear Physics of the Academy of Sciences of the Republic of Uzbekistan, and the Chinese company Shanghai ZDAN International have already joined the consortium as main participants.
The high-flux PIK research reactor, which is being developed at the Petersburg Nuclear Physics Institute, is designed for studying neutrons and neutron radiation, as well as for researching microworld objects and developing fundamental and applied scientific directions. PIK is one of six Russian "megascience" projects included by the Russian government in the program for creating world-class facilities.