A brief guide to the Australian Atomic Energy Commission research establishment

Abstract

In September, 1954, the Commission submitted plans for the creation of an atomic energy research and development organisation in Australia. Commonwealth Government approval of this plan paved the way for the building of the A.A.E.C. Research Establishment at Lucas Heights, on the fringe of the metropolitan area, 20 miles south of Sydney.

The initial program, which has now been completed, provided for the construction of a high flux research reactor, laboratories and workshops for research into nuclear energy. Staff for the Research Establishment, now numbering more than 800, were recruited mainly in Australia. Research teams have kept abreast of current developments overseas by means of staff postings to atomic energy establishments in countries with which Australia has exchange agreements.

The building program on the 160-acre site involved construction of: • a heavy water moderated research reactor known as HIFAR (High Flux Australian Reactor) with a maximum flux of neutrons per sq. cm. per second and a maximum heat output of 10,000 kilowatts; • a low power graphite/light water moderated reactor known as MOATA, with a maximum flux of 1 0 11 neutrons per sq. cm. per second and a maximum heat output of 10 kilowatts; • laboratories for research in chemistry, chemical engineering, health physics, radiation biology, reactor physics, technical physics, isotopes, metallurgy and engineering; • library; • gatehouse, garages, stores, boiler house, effluent treatment plant and control laboratory, and laundry and decontamination centre; • administrative buildings.

The work of the Research Establishment is carried out by joint teams of scientists and technologists organised into sections, each under its own head, and with defined research activities.

For administrative purposes the Research Establishment is divided broadly into two main groups, one dealing with research activities and the other with service and operational activities.