TR-2 Research Reactor Facility
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About the Facility
In 1959, the foundation was laid for the 1 MW TR-1 research reactor, Türkiye’s first nuclear facility. By Decision No. 4 of the AEK meeting dated 12 August 1960, the “atomic reactor” project was named the “Çekmece Nuclear Research and Training Centre” with reference to its location and assigned functions. The TR-1 research reactor reached criticality at 19:14 on 6 January 1962, and the establishment of the Centre was completed with its official opening on 27 May 1962 in the presence of the President of the Republic.
In 1970s, in order to meet the needs arising from nuclear activities in Türkiye and the growing demand for radioisotopes, it was decided to construct a second, higher-power reactor in the same building and pool. The TR-2 research reactor entered full-capacity service at 5 MW in 1984. In 1995, reactor operation was reduced to low power to allow a seismic assessment of the reactor building. The reactor is operated at low power in accordance with testing, analysis and training needs.
TR-2 Research Reactor
The TR-2 Research Reactor is an open-pool research reactor with a thermal power of 5 MW that uses low-enriched uranium fuel. It was commissioned in 1982 to support the development of nuclear technology in Türkiye for the purpose of carrying out fundamental research and development, producing radioisotopes used in medicine and industry and conducting research on production techniques, and for training the personnel who will work in the nuclear field.
The TR-2 research reactor is operated in accordance with the conditions laid down in national and international legislation.
It is the facility providing the highest neutron flux in Türkiye for nuclear research and service purposes.
Activities carried out at the reactor generally include:
• Production of radioisotopes used in medicine and industry,
• Irradiation of samples for neutron activation analyses,
• Experimental applications of thermal-hydraulic and neutronic calculations and other research activities relating to nuclear technology,
• Training of reactor operating personnel, radiation-protection personnel and university students studying nuclear-related subjects,
• Introduction of the TR-2 reactor to various professional and student groups, including guided visits, for public-information purposes.
As the most comprehensive nuclear facility currently in Türkiye, TR-2 is maintained in a state of readiness for operation when required, in line with its original establishment objectives: primarily to sustain the experience and capabilities acquired in nuclear technology; to follow developments at international level and keep international relations up to date; to evaluate research, development and production opportunities in line with changing radioisotope supply and demand in Türkiye and worldwide; and to provide any on-the-job training that may be required in the nuclear field.
Upon request, the reactor can be used for the production of radioisotopes used in medicine and industry, irradiation of samples for neutron activation analyses, and experimental applications of thermal-hydraulic and neutronic calculations. On-the-job training can also be provided for reactor operating personnel and radiation-protection personnel who will work at the facilities, as well as placement training for university students studying relevant subjects.
From Our Facility
This page updated at 11 September 2026 09:29
