HOTLAB 2024: Innovation and Collaboration in Nuclear R&D

From September 22-26, NRG PALLAS hosted the HOTLAB 2024 conference, welcoming 145 participants from 19 countries. The program featured updates on the design and construction of new facilities, post-irradiation examinations, hotlab operations, and interactive sessions focused on technical and safety culture case studies.

Hot Cells

On Thursday, September 26, a technical tour took place, visiting the hot cell labs of NRG PALLAS in Petten, the enrichment facilities of Urenco in Almelo, and the waste management organization COVRA in Borsele. Keynote speaker Caroline Pike from the IAEA delivered an inspiring presentation on various aspects of safety culture.

Hot cell operators provided a live demonstration of welding an IB-32 capsule with the "HOTLAB 2024" inscription. NRG PALLAS also showcased technical demonstrations of an advanced exchange method for Hot-Cell syntacs ports, resulting in lower operator exposure and reduced downtime.

60th Edition

The HOTLAB 2024 conference marked the 60th edition of the Hot Laboratories and Remote Handling Working Group. The first meeting was held in 1963 in Cadarache, France. The aim of this annual event is to share experiences, expertise, and to foster collaboration across all aspects of nuclear R&D, spanning both energy and health sectors.

The conference is designed for technicians, operators, engineers, researchers, suppliers, and managers working in or supporting nuclear R&D facilities, specifically hot cells.

See You Soon

NRG PALLAS extends its gratitude to the participants for their contributions and presentations, and to the IAEA for its cooperation in organizing the event. NRG PALLAS also thanks the sponsors Lemerpax, Eckert & Ziegler, Wälischmiller, and Nuvia. We look forward to seeing you at the next edition.