Overview of the OPAL Neutron Beam Facility

Abstract

The OPAL nuclear reactor, at Lucas Heights, is a 20 MW pool-type research reactor, using low enriched uranium. OPAL is a multi-purpose reactor utilised for scientific research using neutron beams, radioisotope production and silicon neutron transmutation doping.

The OPAL reactor has been designed to provide high flux neutron beam facilities which supply neutrons to world class neutron beam instruments. There are presently seven neutron beam instruments which have been in operation since 2007 and another seven more under construction.

An overview of the neutron beam facilities and instruments available at the OPAL reactor will be presented including the regulatory and radiation protection framework under which instruments are constructed, commissioned 8 operated and a summary of the radiation protection trends 8 issues encountered to date.