Because our current main irradiation facility, the BR2 high flux reactor, is reaching an age of 40 years, MYRRHA could be a possible replacement offering a fast spectrum neutron flux (complementary with the French thermal facility in conception, Réacteur Jules Horowitz).
Material irradiations are very important in the research and development of new steels and other materials for the existing and new nuclear power plants. The effect of irradiation (degradation, embrittlement, activation) can be measured and evaluated.
The behaviour of new nuclear fuel rod designs also need extensive testing under neutron and gamma irradiation during the licensing process. Here also, the different effects of the radiation can be measured and evaluated.