The Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) announced on October 30 that it has developed an innovative laser cutting technology capable of safely dismantling nuclear reactors underwater. (Image courtesy of KIMM)
DAEJEON, Oct. 31 (Korea Bizwire) – The Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) announced on October 30 that it has developed an innovative laser cutting technology capable of safely dismantling nuclear reactors underwater.
The development comes at a crucial time as South Korea faces an increasing need for reactor dismantling technology, with multiple nuclear power plants approaching the end of their operational lifespans in the coming years.
While nuclear facility dismantling traditionally employs either mechanical or thermal cutting methods, the research team focused on developing a high-powered laser thermal cutting system that operates underwater. This approach enhances safety measures and minimizes secondary contamination during the dismantling process.
In a significant breakthrough, the team successfully demonstrated the technology’s capability by cutting through stainless steel specimens over 100mm thick in a single pass.
The tests were conducted in a pressurized water tank simulating actual dismantling conditions at a depth of 10 meters. Stainless steel is the primary material used in nuclear pressure vessels.
The testing environment was carefully designed to replicate real-world conditions in preparation for future nuclear power plant decommissioning projects. The technology has already secured patent registration.
The research team also developed a proprietary collision prevention mechanism to avoid accidents that could occur from contact between the cutting specimen and the nozzle during underwater laser cutting operations.
“With the number of nuclear facilities scheduled for permanent closure expected to increase through 2050, we plan to continue demonstration research based on this technology,” said Park In-deok, principal researcher at KIMM.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
