JSC Science and Innovations (scientific division of ROSATOM) and the Japanese Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) signed the Implementing Arrangement Concerning Information Exchange on Reactor Physics Experiments for Minor Actinoid Transmutation for Radioactive Waste Processing and Management on September 13, 2018 in Vladivostok at the Eastern Economic Forum.
The Arrangement was signed within the framework of cooperation between Japan and Russia, according to the Memorandum on Information Exchange on Reactor Physics Experiments for Minor Actinoid Transmutation for Radioactive Waste Processing and Management dated September 7, 2017.
The document was signed by Pavel Zaytsev, Director General of JSC "Science and Innovations" and Kazumasa Hioki, Director of Office of Strategy and International Affairs of the JAEA.
This Arrangement marks further scientific and technical cooperation aimed at studying the possibilities of reducing the radiotoxicity of radioactive waste.
"Cooperation between ROSATOM and the Japanese nuclear industry organizations in the scientific and technical sphere is rather comprehensive and rapidly developing. We are optimistic about joint plans for research work in the field of reducing the amount of radioactive waste. Moreover, we believe that the scale of cooperation in this area can be substantially expanded. It is symbolic that we deepen our cooperation in the year of Japan and Russia, which is held in both countries," said Pavel Zaytsev, Director General of JSC" Science and Innovations".
The technology of the transmutation of minor actinides, namely the long-lived isotopes of americium, curium and neptunium contained in radioactive waste from reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel, significantly reduces the volume and radiotoxicity of waste.
Scientific centers in Russia and Japan, having significant successful experience of research and experiments in the field of radioactive waste management, are interested in joining efforts in this area, which is of great importance for the safety of people and the environment.
It is assumed that the cooperation of ROSATOM and the JAEA in the R&D field will lead to the enhancement of scientific base at the respective organizations.