The Ministry of Electricity has committed R1,2 billion over the next three years to support the development of a new multipurpose nuclear research reactor.
The funding, announced by Minister of Electricity Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, will go towards the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation’s multipurpose reactor project intended to replace the ageing SAFARI-1 research reactor.
Other functions of SAFARI-1 include neutron activation analyses, material modification, neutron transmutation doping of silicon, neutron radiography and neutron diffraction for industrial and academic interest. Silicon irradiated at SAFARI-1 is a key component in product development associated with semiconductor industries such as integrated circuits used in computers, motor vehicles, home appliances, cell phones and smart TVs, among others.
Speaking at SAFARI-1’s 60th anniversary celebration, Ramokgopa paid tribute to the pioneering technology. “SAFARI-1 has been a cornerstone of South Africa’s nuclear research and innovation for six decades. Its contribution to medical science, particularly in the production of life-saving isotopes for cancer diagnostics and treatment, has had a profound impact locally and globally.”
He said the reactor played an important role in neutron research, contributing to the training of generations of scientists and engineers in nuclear science. Its successor is expected to build on this foundation, offering irradiation and isotope production services, beam line facilities and advanced research capabilities using modern technology.
