Scientific Reviews Forty Years of Neutron Research in Gatchina

Introduction One of the oldest research reactors was started some forty years ago. WWR-M reactor started operating in December 1959 at St. Petersburg Nuclear Physics Institute (PNPI) in Gatchina. Since then it has been operating normally without replacement of the tank. Russia's concern for this reactor as a neutron source significantly increased when many research reactors were shut down after the USSR breakup. The construction of a new high-flux reactor, PIK, is currently in progress at PNPI. According to the experts' estimations, 70 percent of the work has already been completed. However, the economical situation in Russia makes it difficult to estimate the date of completion. In connection with this, the institute has made a decision to change the capabilities of the WWR-M reactor so that they comply with the new standards of security requirements, and to prolong its operation. WWR-M reactor is located in the Neutron Research Department of PNPI. The institute has a large mechanical workshop for the manufacturing of experimental equipment and developed infrastructure. A cryogenic station for production of liquid nitrogen and helium is located 800 m away from the reactor. The institute is situated in a wooded region about 3 km from Gatchina and 50 km from St. Petersburg. The institute facilities include a dining room, hotel (100 rooms), and sports complex with a swimming pool and is accessible to St. Petersburg by bus and rail. The institute welcomes science visitors and collaborates with many institutes in Russia and foreign countries as well.