BME launches centre for new nuclear technology

The BME Faculty of Natural Sciences (TTK) has established its new Competence Centre for Micro and Small Modular Reactors. Operating within in the Institute of Nuclear Techniques, it will carry out educational, R&D and innovation tasks, as well as technical and economic feasibility studies, to promote the use of micro and small modular reactors (SMRs) in Hungary and the region. By doing so, it supports Hungarian and international industry in the safe, economic and sustainable deployment of the technology.

Microreactors are defined by the International Atomic Energy Agency as facilities with a power below 10 MWe, while small modular reactors are typically below 300 MWe. They have the advantage of quick setup and flexible operation. Interest in small modular reactors is intense in the European Union, America and the Far East.

The technology should play an important role not only in electricity generation, but also in the decarbonisation of heavy industry and chemical processes, hydrogen production and the supply of district heating for industry and households without fossil fuels,

Attila Aszódi, professor and dean of the TTK, told bme.hu.

In the field of in-depth investigation and development of technological solutions, the licensing of equipment, and the related analytical tasks, the BME intends to develop its competences and capacities in a conscious and coordinated way.

BME's Institute of Nuclear Techniques operates the country's only training reactor, an internationally recognised workplace and infrastructure for the further development of nuclear reactor-related knowledge.

Rector's Office, Communications Directorate