- KAMINI, or Kalpakkam Mini reactor, is a research reactor located at the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) in Kalpakkam, India.
- It is a pool-type reactor, meaning that it is submerged in a pool of water. KAMINI is fueled with uranium-233 metal and moderated with light water. It has a thermal power of 30 kW and a critical mass of 5.7 kg.
- KAMINI was designed and built by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) and IGCAR. It was first critical on October 29, 1996.
KAMINI is used for a variety of research purposes, including:
- Neutron radiography: Neutron radiography is a non-destructive testing technique that uses neutrons to image the internal structure of objects. KAMINI is used to study the internal structure of materials, such as metals and plastics.
- Neutron activation analysis: Neutron activation analysis is a analytical technique that uses neutrons to induce radioactivity in materials. The radioactivity is then measured to determine the elemental composition of the material. KAMINI is used to analyze materials for a variety of applications, such as environmental monitoring and quality control.
- Shielding studies: KAMINI is used to study the shielding properties of materials. This information is used to design and construct safe and effective nuclear reactors and other nuclear facilities.
KAMINI is a valuable research tool that has made significant contributions to the field of nuclear science and technology. It is a unique facility in the world and is used by researchers from India and other countries.
Key features of KAMINI:
- Pool-type reactor: KAMINI is a pool-type reactor, meaning that it is submerged in a pool of water. This provides both cooling and shielding for the reactor.
- Uranium-233 fuel: KAMINI is fueled with uranium-233 metal. Uranium-233 is a fissile isotope of uranium, meaning that it can undergo nuclear fission.
- Light water moderator: KAMINI is moderated with light water. Light water is a good moderator because it slows down neutrons without absorbing them.
- 30 kW thermal power: KAMINI has a thermal power of 30 kW. This is a relatively low power output, but it is sufficient for many research applications.
KAMINI is a valuable research tool that has made significant contributions to the field of nuclear science and technology. It is a unique facility in the world and is used by researchers from India and other countries.