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Research Nuclear Energy Research

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Research at Nuclear Energy

The discussion of how to ensure a healthy and stable environment in the future through a transition from the present mainly carbon-related energy supply to one which guarantees diminished emission of green-house gases is on top of the agenda of any international meeting and also a hot topic in the Dutch politics.

Along with the renewable energy sources, nuclear energy is an important carbon-free alternative to burning fossil fuels. This form of energy has, effectively, the lowest carbon-dioxide emission into the atmosphere. It plays, therefore, an important transitional role in helping achieve the goals of international climate agreements, and in dealing with the constantly growing energy demand. Generation IV reactors provide significant improvements in economics, safety, sustainability, and proliferation resistance.

For the development of these advanced reactor systems, accurate knowledge of inelastic neutron scattering cross sections of materials relevant to nuclear reactors is crucial. Furthermore, various measurements on the fissioning systems will help understand the underlying dynamics. Our group is very active in the performance of these measurements at facilities such as GELINA, based in Belgium, and GSI, based in Germany. GELINA is designed for high-resolution measurements of neutron cross sections. At GSI, high-precision mass measurements of the fission fragments provide information for nuclear models of the heavy radioactive nuclei. For these measurements, we also develop advanced detection methods and scientific concepts.

The results of these measurements are not only important in the energy sector but can also be utilized in the non-energy nuclear technology applications.

Last modified:24 March 2021 3.37 p.m.