Water quality monitoring of Reactor TRIGA PUSPATI

Abstract

Abstract At present, Reactor TRIGA PUSPATI (RTP) is the only nuclear research reactor in operation in Malaysia since 1982. Each year, the reactor is operated on average for about 600 hours mainly for the advanced neutron and gamma radiation studies as well as for isotope production, sample activation and student training. About one-third of the RTP’s core volume is occupied by water. The water-cooling and purification systems maintain low water conductivity, remove impurities, maintained the optical clarity of the water and dissipating the reactor heat. They consist of a water surface skimmer, pump, filter, demineralizer, heat exchanger unit, associated piping and valves as well as other miscellaneous instrumentations. Thus, the aim of this study is to investigate water quality and maintains the water chemistry to the required specifications at all times in order to ensure longevity and performance of the reactor system.