Research reactor

Abstract

Australia's only research reactor is operated by ANSTO, the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation. It is located at the Lucas Heights Science and Technology Centre, about 35 kilometres south-west of the centre of Sydney. The reactor has operated safely since 1958. It is the foundation of Australia's nuclear medicine capability. It is also used in research into new materials, to irradiate silicon used in computer chips and to produce materials used in environmental management, agriculture, industry and minerals exploration. The research reactor is a valuable facility used by researchers and students from universities in Australia and New Zealand.