The OPAL Project

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The OPAL Project Opportunities in Nuclear
Science and Technology
Ian O Smith
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Timeline for OPAL Development

• 1997
• In-principle approval for multipurpose reactor
• 1997-98
• Parliamentary processes and EIS approval
• 1998-2000
• Tendering and tender evaluation
• July 2000
• Contract awarded to INVAP SE

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Timeline Continued

• April 2002
• ARPANSA issues construction licence
• September 2005
• Final submission for Operating licence
• July 14 2006
• ARPANSA grants operating licence
• August 12 2006
• First criticality

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Purpose of OPAL

• Maintenance of nuclear technical expertise
• Nuclear medicine support
• Neutron Beam Research Facility
• Research and Training
• Irradiation facility for NAA TDSi

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Neutron Beam Instruments
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Indicative Demand
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Some Examples of Neutron Beam Research Projects

• ILL Grenoble France
• NIST Washington USA

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Cartoon of Typical Cell Membrane
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Membrane Proteins
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Biomimetic surfaces used for sensing and drug
screening
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Obesity Research at ILL
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HIV Virus Research at ILL
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Thermally Tolerant Proteins at ILL
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Muscle Control Research at ILL
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Structural Studies of Cellulose at ILL
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Hydrogen Storage Research at NIST
This computer model shows how titanium atoms
(dark blue) can attach above the centres of
single-walled carbon nanotubes (light blue).
Quantum calculations and modelling by a NIST
researcher and his colleague reveal that each
titanium atom can bond with four hydrogen
molecules (red), a finding that could lead to
efficient fuel cells for future automobiles.
Image Credit T. Yildirim/NIST
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Residual Stress Analysis Determinations at NIST
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I hope you enjoy your visit to ANSTO at Lucas
Heights on Friday

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