Radiological characterisation is vital during the decommissioning of nuclear installations. It involves detecting and labelling radiation levels, waste materials and contaminants, and determining other parameters (eg. thermal and chemical). This data is then intelligently attached to 3D scene models.
More coming soonNuclear waste must be dealt with safely. Robots are being developed to autonomously carry out complex tasks (perceiving, grasping, cutting and manipulating waste). Once sorted, radioactive material can then be stored safely or disposed of appropriately, all through the actions of remotely controlled robots.
More coming soonA large part of nuclear decommissioning involves dismantling radiation environments (eg. facilities contaminated by plutonium dust). Robots are needed to navigate enclosed spaces and pull apart contaminated pipes, vessels and steelwork. Currently this work is done manually by humans in air-fed suits.
More coming soonRemotely-operated vehicles are being developed to access, inspect and map complex underwater nuclear sites, for when the deployment of a manned vehicle is considered too hazardous.
More coming soonDrones (or unmanned aerial vehicles) reduce the need for human entry into radioactive environments. Research is ongoing to develop the next generation of UAVs. These will detect radiation levels both during routine monitoring and after emergencies.
More coming soonWe need new ways to tackle our legacy waste – solutions that are faster, safer and cheaper than what we have now.
Finding them is what we do at the National Centre for Nuclear Robotics (NCNR).
By uniting leading experts in robotics, Artificial Intelligence (AI), sensors, radiation, and resilient embedded systems, we aim to bring Europe’s biggest and most complex environmental challenge to a timely end.
The UK has invested £42 million in the NCNR. Our brief is to reduce nuclear waste, ease the burden on the taxpayer, and create a safer world for future generations. This has been invested by Research institutions, Industry, the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and Private Investors.
The NCNR is a collaborative project involving international experts from 8 UK universities and 30+ partners from the nuclear industry.
Together, we’re finding ways to make radioactive environments safe and to dispose of nuclear waste. By engaging stakeholders from the entire value chain, we’re uniquely equipped and resourced to develop ground-breaking technologies.
The National Centre is about to complete its first year of its 42 month project. We are excited to be working on our end of year glossy to showcase all of the amazing work we have achieved in the first 12 months.
The NCNR is excited to launch its hugely exciting project in which we are looking forward to combine expertise from eight leading universities. This video explains why this project is such an exciting challenge that we are proud to be tackling.