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FCC Construcción advances in preparations for the construction of the medical isotopes PALLAS-reactor (the Netherlands)
FCC Construcción advances in preparations for the construction of the medical isotopes PALLAS-reactor (the Netherlands)
Since December 2023, when FCC Construcción was chosen as the general contractor for the construction of the PALLAS-reactor and surrounding buildings of the PALLAS project, FCC Construcción continues to make progress on preparations for the start of construction.
The foundation of the reactor building is expected to be completed in the last quarter of this year. The success of the project derives from the coordinated, collaborative work between - FCC, ICHOS (main designer) and NRG PALLAS.
Within the joint effort, following has been so far achieved: FCC presented 70% of the deliverables to the client, , the first draft of the integrated project schedule (IPS) has been presented, 80% of the cost estimation has been done, the scope of the contract batches has been defined and the signature of the additional batches is pending. Currently, batches 0, 1 and 2 are under development.
In addition, the European Commission recently approved funding for the PALLAS Programme by the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sports, which gives green light to the project's future activities.
The PALLAS-reactor will be a nuclear reactor, for which realisation, commissioning and operation high safety and quality standards are being implemented.
First IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) safety mission has been carried out, supported by the international INSARR methodology (methodology developed specifically for research reactors). The audit team acknowledged ‘the thorough preparation, openness and technical expertise of the staff throughout the mission'. The team also acknowledged the commitment of the PALLAS management and staff to 'continue to ensure safety during construction.’
The PALLAS-reactor is important for many patients who are diagnosed and treated with life-threatening diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. These patients depend on the medical isotopes produced in the High Flux Reactor in Petten. With the construction of the new reactor, it will be possible to keep helping patients for a long time to come. The PALLAS-reactor will also contribute to research into a CO2-free energy supply.