Research and Development Infrastructure Task Force

The Generation IV International Forum Research and Development Infrastructure Task Force (GIF RDTF) was established in 2018 after approval by the Policy Group in October 2017. The Task Force included representatives from the six Gen IV System Steering Committees and the Experts Group (EG). It had two main objectives:

1. Identify essential R&D experimental facilities for the development, demonstration, and qualification of Gen IV components and systems, ensuring safety and security objectives are met.
2. Promote the use of these facilities for collaborative R&D among GIF partners.

The Task Force focused on identifying critical experimental infrastructure needs for Generation-IV systems, including Sodium-cooled Fast Reactors (SFR), Lead-cooled Fast Reactors (LFR), Gas-cooled Fast Reactors (GFR), Very High Temperature Reactors (VHTR), Supercritical-Water-Cooled Reactors (SCWR), and Molten Salt Reactors (MSR). It addressed the challenges of mapping these needs based on national R&D programs and industrial requirements for the next decade.

One of the main achievements was highlighting gaps in existing experimental facilities and discussing planned constructions, including those outside GIF countries. The Task Force also identified research reactors that support innovative GIF systems' irradiation needs for materials and fuels, focusing on displacement damage and temperature requirements.

To meet its second objective, the Task Force promoted the utilization of experimental facilities for collaborative R&D. This involved identifying existing mechanisms and approaches to facilitate access to relevant R&D facilities in GIF member countries. Information on these facilities was made accessible to GIF participants through the GIF website, enhancing cooperation with international organizations like the OECD/NEA and IAEA.

The Task Force organized high-level events and workshops, such as the GIF Symposium and the workshop on Advanced Manufacturing and Materials Engineering (AMME). These events facilitated knowledge exchange and engagement with private sectors, including Small Modular Reactor (SMR) vendors.

The Task Force's final report, published at the end of its mandate, addressed major experimental infrastructure needs, cross-cutting R&D challenges, and future collaboration opportunities. It recommended the formation of new task forces to focus on verification/validation and regulatory exchanges, reflecting the feedback from the private sector and RDTF members.