SCK CEN

We offer various services and operate BR2, a Material Test Reactor (MTR) with a very high neutron flux, BR1, a graphite-gas research reactor, GUINEVERE a zero-power-critical-facility, several gamma irradiation facilities, a laboratory for High and Medium Activity and Nuclear analysis, as well as different chemical laboratories. Through the EIG EURIDICE we run our Underground Research Laboratory HADES. Also noteworthy are our European demonstration programs for PWR dismantling and MYRRHA (Multi-purpose hYbrid Research Reactor for High-tech Applications), an Accelerator Driven System (ADS) under development in Mol.

Thanks to its thorough experience in the field of nuclear science and technology, its innovative research and the availability of large and unique nuclear installations, SCK CEN is not only a renowned nuclear research institution, but also an important partner for nuclear education and training in Belgium as well as at international level.

SCK CEN began R&D on geological disposal in clay in 1974 and since then has been an active participant in all EC FP's and the R&D programs of ONDRAF-NIRAS, performing R&D on many aspects of near-field and far-field processes including laboratory experiments, modelling, in-situ tests and Performance Assessment. SCK CEN actively contributes to the Belgian programme for radioactive waste disposal as a main contractor for the Belgian waste management organisation, ONDRAF-NIRAS, in two projects: 1) the surface disposal facility for short-lived low and intermediate level waste in Dessel, and 2) research on a potential geological disposal facility in poorly indurated clay formations. Both types of facilities necessitate a thorough waste characterization methodology and SCK CEN contributes to the R&D.

Apart from this, SCK CEN as a nuclear research centre also produces waste, which is subject to scrutinous quality control and characterization before being accepted by ONDRAF-NIRAS. As such, SCK CEN disposes of several characterization techniques. SCK CEN is also an active partner within ENTRAP, the European Network of Testing facilities for the quality checking of radioactive waste packages, and LABONET, the IAEA international network of laboratories for radioactive waste characterization.

Role, responsibilities and activities within the Project

Within WP2, SCK CEN will provide assistance and actively contribute to the development and interpretation of the end-users' requirements enquiries. Within WP3, SCK CEN will conduct R&D work (respectively experiments and modelling). Within WP6, SCK CEN will organize and assist in dedicated training courses, develop and maintain a project website, conduct R&D on stakeholders' expectations towards waste characterization, and provide tools and recommendations for interaction with stakeholders.