OPAL Reactor
OPAL is an open-pool type research reactor fuelled by low enriched fuel operating at a core thermal power of 20MW.
OPAL is designed to achieve high performance in the production of neutrons. These neutrons are used for the production of radioisotopes, other radiation services and neutron research.
Advantages of the reactor design include a compact core which maximises neutron production, and a core that is surrounded by a reflector vessel, which enables easy access to irradiation facilities.
The reactor core, consisting of fuel elements and control rods, is contained inside an open pool of demineralised water, which provides both cooling and protection against radiation from the core.
Due to the depth of water above the core, operators are able to safely work and perform irradiations from the top of the pool without exposure to harmful neutrons and gamma rays.