History, Development and Future of SLOWPOKE MNSR Research Reactors

Detailing the evolution of SLOWPOKE and MNSR nuclear reactors, the publication surveys historical achievements, operational challenges, and future opportunities. It encompasses insights into core conversion, refuelling, ageing management, and decommissioning practices across several nations. This publication examines the historical and current use of SLOWPOKE (Safe Low Power Critical Experiment) and miniature neutron source reactor (MNSR) research reactors. It discusses known issues, considers the potential for future challenges and opportunities, and provides information on their history, development, utilization, operational experience, core conversion and refuelling, ageing management and decommissioning. The Annex includes abstracts of 17 papers, available online, covering SLOWPOKE and MNSR research reactors under construction or in operational, shutdown, decommissioning or decommissioned status in nine countries.