NNC RK Presented IGR Reactor Conversion Results to International Community

From April 20 to 24, 2026, a delegation from the National Nuclear Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan took part in the annual European Nuclear Society Conference on research reactor fuel management – the RRFM Conference, held in Leiden, the Netherlands.  

As part of technical program, specialists from the NNC RK delivered presentations on R&D work related to the conversion and upgrade of the IGR research reactor. Whole findings presented generated considerable interest among the international expert community.  

On the sidelines of the conference, a working meeting was held with representatives of Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) and the US Department of Energy (DOE/NNSA). During the talks, the following issues were addressed:  

• Progress in R&D work on LEU fuel fabrication technology at the NNC RK;  
• Upgrade of the project roadmap covering the entire duration of the conversion activities.  

NNSA representatives commended the high pace of work and the positive research outcomes achieved during the current year. As a result of the meeting, both parties confirmed the strong potential for the successful completion of the IGR reactor conversion project within the established timeframe.  

Background: The RRFM Conference has been held annually since 1997 and stands as one of the key international platforms for the exchange of expertise in the areas of research reactor operation, nuclear fuel management, and the implementation of HEU minimization projects. The event brings together leading experts, facility operators, and regulatory representatives from around the world.