Licensing of the Neutron Source in Ukraine: Challenges and Solutions

Abstract

A research nuclear facility, the Neutron Source Based on the Subcritical Assembly Driven by a Linear Electron Accelerator (Neutron Source), is under commissioning in the National Scientific Center “Kharkiv Institute of Physics and Technology” (NSC KIPT), Ukraine, as an international collaborative project of NSC KIPT and the Argonne National Laboratory (ANL), USA. The Neutron Source is intended to study subcritical systems and generate neutrons to be used in applied and fundamental research in physics, chemistry, biology, and medicine. The construction of a state-of-art nuclear research facility is a challenge for both the operating organization (NSC KIPT) and the regulatory authority (SNRIU). NSC KIPT faced the technical challenges caused by the unique design features of the facility. SNRIU faced the two major challenges: no regulations to govern nuclear and radiation safety; no experience in licensing such a type of facility. This paper discusses aspects related to the challenges and solutions in licensing of the Neutron Source, including development of the regulatory and legal framework on nuclear and radiation safety, review of the safety justification documents for the new nuclear subcritical facility and verification calculations.