KAZNU PREPARES MATERIALS FOR NUCLEAR ENERGY

The Laboratory of Structural and Functional Materials for Nuclear Power Plants of the Al-Farabi Kazakh National University plays an important role in preparing the scientific base for the construction of the first nuclear power plant in Kazakhstan.

The main task of the laboratory is to study the properties and behavior of various materials that can be used in nuclear reactors. This includes exposure to high temperatures, radiation, corrosive environments, and mechanical stress.

Research helps to understand which materials are suitable for creating reliable and safe components of a future station. The laboratory closely cooperates with leading scientific organizations of Kazakhstan and international partners. Such joint projects allow us to follow international standards and use advanced technologies in our conditions.

"Much attention is paid to testing materials in conditions as close as possible to real conditions. The laboratory has already obtained unique results on the study of lithium ceramics and alloys, materials with hydrogen permeability and resistance to radiation, which is especially important for reactor protection elements", - said Evgeny Chikhray, Candidate of Technical Sciences, leading researcher at KazNU.

In addition, work is underway to introduce fiber-optic sensors capable of operating in highly irradiated conditions. These technologies can potentially be used not only at the Kazakh NPP, but also in international projects like ITER and DEMO.

The results of scientific activity are actively discussed on expert platforms and forums, and help to form a reasoned position on the development of nuclear energy.

The laboratory is recognized in academic circles – the articles of the staff are published in international scientific journals. Young specialists are also being trained: two doctoral students on the topic of nuclear energy are currently working in the laboratory, and a new graduate student is expected in 2025.

Thus, the laboratory makes a significant contribution to the development of nuclear technologies and the training of personnel necessary for the implementation of the nuclear project in Kazakhstan.

Press-service of Al-Farabi Kazakh National University