MCC is unique nuclear industry enterprise, which key nuclear productions are located underground; it has no parallel in the world. The guests had a look at the combine’s operating experience and discussed current approaches to development of the closed nuclear fuel cycle technologies. MCC CEO Petr Gavrilov presented on the safe management of SNF and the Russia’s current NFC closing concept as well as the production facilities, which are being built for this purpose on the site. 

During a familiarization visit to the wet and dry storage facilities for SNF the Japanese delegation representatives were familiarized with the engineering solutions, which ensure safety of fuel storage. The safety features, such as sectional structure of the spent fuel pool and spray system were highly appraised.

The second part of the program included a discussion of the presentation on the basic technology of the Pilot Demonstration Center (PDC), which construction will start on the MCC site already this year. Unlike the plants operating to the French technology (one of these built in Rokkasho, Japan) MCC’s PDC represents the next generation technology where SNF is reprocessed without liquid radioactive waste being generated. These conceptual solutions raised interest with the Japanese delegation. At a press conference Mr. Hattori shared his impressions with journalists.

“SNF management technologies are essential for mankind, including for Japan. Russia today is the country, which has most advanced in this area. We have visited MCC facilities, had a talk on innovative technologies and unique ideas, which are being implemented on your site. We hope that this discussion will result in a common decision to cooperate further. As soon as I’m back in Japan, I intend to prepare a full report on what I saw and discussed for the people who are responsible for decision-making in Japan could adopt them,” Mr. Hattori concluded.