Belgian nuclear research centre marks 70th anniversary with academic and visiting sessions

In 2022, it is exactly 70 years since the creation of SCK CEN, the only nuclear research centre in Belgium. At the time, it was created to promote nuclear energy in Belgium and start the atomic era. To celebrate the occasion, SCK CEN hosts an academic session this Tuesday 24 May and visiting days in June.

The academic session was attended by the Belgian prime minister Alexander De Croo; ministers Pierre-Yves Dermagne (Economy and Labour) and Tinne Van der Straeten (Energy) and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)'s director-general, Rafael Grossi.

"Over the years, our scientific curiosity has allowed us to explore new fields of research and discover the immense potential of the atom. We proved that the atom has a lot to offer. It makes a world of difference in the fight against cancer, it sharpens our fundamental knowledge on materials and nuclear fuel and it even opens the door to space exploration", highlights Eric van Walle, director-general of SCK CEN. 

On 11 and 12 June, the nuclear research centre will give a unique look behind the scenes and entrance tickets already ran out. The free registration closed last 22 May. "They will dive into the virtual reactor vessel of Belgian Reactor 2 (BR2) and visit the control room of Belgian Reactor 1 (BR1), which is the first and still operating reactor in Belgium”, illustrates Eric van Walle. 

Furthermore, the visitors will discover what role the nuclear sector plays in the fight against cancer, what is involved in the dismantling of nuclear power plants, what research SCK CEN is performing into solutions for radioactive waste and how reactor technology can help. ​ 

(VIV)

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© BELGA PHOTO (BRUNO FAHY) Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo at the academic session at SCK CEN

© BELGA VIDEO (ROBBE VANDEGEHUCHTE)