At J-PARC, studies have been advanced on the Transmutation Experimental Facility utilizing the 400 MeV proton beam from the linac accelerator, aimed at developing an accelerator-driven nuclear transmutation system (ADS) to reduce radioactive waste generated by nuclear power generation. Currently, to further expand the utilization of the J-PARC proton beam for industrial and medical applications, the conceptual design of a proton beam irradiation facility (Fig. 1), evolved from the Transmutation Experimental Facility, is being advanced. Furthermore, by establishing a user community to broadly collect user requirements and incorporating them into the facility design, we aim to realize an attractive facility that can utilize the proton beams for multipurpose applications.

(1) Nuclear Energy Development: Radiation fields similar to those of nuclear reactors and fusion reactors, in addition to high-energy accelerator facilities such as ADS and J-PARC, will be provided to conduct comprehensive material irradiation testing for nuclear equipment. A post-irradiation examination facility will also be incorporated.

(2) Space and Semiconductor Development: The effects of cosmic-ray protons on semiconductor device failures in spacecraft will be evaluated, contributing to improved spacecraft reliability. High-intensity neutron beams will be utilized to evaluate the effects of space-origin neutron radiation on semiconductor device malfunctions, contributing to enhanced device reliability.

(3) Pharmaceutical Development: Medical radioisotopes (RIs), the same as those planned for production at JAEA research reactors, will be manufactured to ensure a stable domestic supply of RIs throughout the year. The production of RIs using accelerator technology will be explored further at this facility.

Paper (PDF): JAEA-Technology 2024-026.pdf

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