Name of the Project
Multipurpose fast-neutron research reactor (MBIR) project.

Location
The project is being built at the Research Institute of Atomic Reactors (NIIAR) in Dimitrovgrad, Ulyanovsk region, Russia.

Project Owner/s
Rosatom.

Project Description
The MBIR is a 150 MWt multipurpose sodium-cooled fast-neutron reactor, which is expected to provide the nuclear industry with modern and technologically advanced research infrastructure for the next 50 years.

The MBIR will make it possible to solve a wide range of research problems to support the development of new nuclear power plants, including fast reactors based on closing the nuclear fuel cycle.

It will replace the BOR-60 experimental fast reactor that has been in operation at the NIIAR site since 1969.

It will be a multiloop research reactor capable of testing lead, lead-bismuth and gas coolants. It will operate on mixed uranium and plutonium oxide fuel.

A comprehensive research reactor unit with high neutron flux can neither be small in size nor modular in design; high costs are, therefore, unavoidable.

This factor has contributed to the idea that has been promoted by the International Atomic Energy Agency, which advocates for the creation of shared facilities, where one reactor can service the needs of many countries.

Potential Job Creation
The project is expected to create 2 000 jobs during construction.

Capital Expenditure
Not stated.

Planned Start/End Date
Rosatom plans to obtain an operating licence for MBIR in 2027 and to conduct the physical startup of the reactor by the end of that year. The energy startup of MBIR is planned during 2028, with its commissioning scheduled in the fourth quarter of that year.

Latest Developments
The MBIR has entered the installation phase.

A package of agreements on cooperation has also been signed between Rosatom and representatives of the Ulyanovsk region to create a "modern social infrastructure" around the MBIR construction project.

Key Contracts, Suppliers and Consultants
AEM Technology (RPV).

Contact Details for Project Information
Rosatom, tel +7 499 949 4535 or email info@rosatom.ru.