The Role of Research Reactors in Developing Generation IV Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) in Canada

Abstract

With an interest in reducing carbon emissions, Canada has committed to expanding its nuclear reactor fleet beyond its domestic power fleet by deploying a variety of small modular reactor (SMR) designs. However, the lack of replacement for the shutdown National Research Universal (NRU) reactor has left Canada with significantly diminished capabilities in neutron beam analysis, nuclear materials testing, and reactor physics at a time when these capabilities will be required to develop many of the proposed SMR designs. Additionally, Western Canada now operates no research reactors, with potential consequences for regional training opportunities at a time when Alberta and Saskatchewan are aspiring to deploy SMRs to meet decarbonization goals. This review will provide insight into the current capabilities of Canada’s research reactors as they relate to SMR development while highlighting gaps in these capabilities. Special consideration is given to the accessibility of Canada’s remaining research reactors to those outside southern Ontario.