Implementation of the IMSR400 Holistic & Integrated Approach to Nuclear Security and Safeguards

Abstract

A holistic and integrated approach to nuclear security and safeguards is being implemented in the design development for the Terrestrial Energy Inc. (TEI) Integral Molten Salt Reactor (IMSR400). The aim is to deliver a cost-effective through-life security and safeguards solution that does not challenge the operational business case for the IMSR400. The approach benefits from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) intended move towards non‑prescriptive nuclear security regulations.

This paper introduces the approach and illustrates its implementation via examples of security-by- design and safeguards-by-design. It also presents opportunities that have been taken to security and safeguards inform the design and layout of a twin unit IMSR400 plant. There are significant benefits to be gained by the integration of security and safeguards with design, safety, and operations, and these are discussed. The paper concludes with the challenges being encountered during the implementation and how these are being overcome.