The research and developmental efforts of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) are focused towards fulfilling its mandate of indigenous nuclear power programme and various other applications of nuclear energy. Self-reliance has been achieved in the technology to design, construct, operate and maintain nuclear power reactors of PHWR type and associated technologies. Development of the next generation of nuclear reactors for exploiting vast reserves of thorium is being pursued vigorously. Considerable self-reliance has also been achieved in the field of nuclear materials and fuels for reactors, and capability has been developed to reprocess the spent fuel, recycle fertile and fissile materials and manage the nuclear wastes safely.

BARC has contributed immensely towards national security by demonstrating a nuclear deterrent capability. Post-test investigations have now been completed. These tests have confirmed that all the objectives of the tests were fully achieved.

Supply of radioisotopes for application in agriculture, medicine and industries and protection of environment & personnel against radiation has been the ongoing activities of the Centre. The Centre supports a comprehensive programme in basic research and human resource development in all areas of nuclear science and technology.

IX Plan programmes to meet the short and long term goals in the fields of Reactors, Reprocessing & Waste Management, Nuclear Materials, Nuclear Fuels, Health, Safety & Bio-Sciences, Radioisotope Applications, Chemical & Physical Sciences and Desalination are being pursued by the centre. Infrastructure enhancement and strengthening the linkages with other institutions are essential elements of implementation of the aforesaid programmes.

Suitable strategies and mechanisms are adopted to monitor progress and performance for achieving physical and financial targets. A system of coordinated follow up involving interactive working of large number of individuals across various disciplines has contributed to more efficient project implementation. Project reviews and monitoring activities on a continuous basis were undertaken at various levels for expeditious completion of plan projects.

Reactor Programme

Research Reactors

The Trombay Research Reactors Dhruva and Apsara continued to operate satisfactorily and were utilised in a variety of fields such as basic and applied research, radioisotope production, testing of materials, manpower training etc.
 

Research Reactor DHRUVA Trombay

Apsara

The reactor completed 44 years of successful operation and continued to be well utilized in various experiments such as neutron activation analysis, radiation damage studies, forensic research, testing of nuclear detectors, neutron radiography and shielding experiments. Over 440 samples were irradiated during the year for research & radioisotope production. An important experiment for optimizing the in-core shielding of the intermediate sodium heat exchanger of PFBR is being carried out in Apsara. Three sets of experiments with different combinations of shield models were completed during the year and preparations for conducting the fourth set are being made. Results obtained from these experiments have also been utilised for validation of various computer codes used for carrying out shielding calculations and for estimating neutron fluxes outside the core of reactors.

As part of planned refurbishment and core conversion of Apsara reactor, detailed design of process systems, core components and control and instrumentation system was completed. Work on construction of a new civil structure for housing a demineralised water plant and repairs of existing underground water storage tanks has commenced

Cirus

Substantial progress was made in refurbishing of Cirus and the reactor is likely to be back in operation during the coming year. Some of the major refurbishing activities during the year are given below:

• Work on refurbishing sub-soil coolant piping that are laid about 15 feet below the grade was completed.
• A large number of mechanical equipments, cables, relays, electrical machinery and control and instrumentation items in various reactor systems were replaced or repaired as appropriate.
• A special repair methodology was employed for correcting leaks from flanged joints on the helium piping located in an inaccessible region above the reactor vessel.
• A scheme for reactor start-up after the long shutdown, with fresh fuel in the core which will be surrounded by irradiated structural components, was finalised.

PFBR Shielding Experiment set-up at the Shielding Corner Cave in Apsara

Dhruva

The reactor completed 15 years of successful operation. Dhruva continues to be the major facility for radioisotope production and also serves as a national facility for neutron beam research programmes. During the year, 875 samples were irradiated for radioisotope production. A number of research scholars from various academic institutions in the country utilised the reactor under the aegis of the Inter University Consortium for DAE facilities. During the year some of the major activities were as follows:

• A Pneumatic Carrier Facility was commissioned to enable trace element assay of samples by neutron activation analysis. Several trial irradiations were carried out at various power levels.
• Work on fabrication of a Pool-side Inspection Facility for underwater dismantling and remote inspection of irradiated fuel assemblies was completed. The facility was successfully shop tested and was under installation in the Spent Fuel Storage Bay.
• In addition to production of assorted radioisotopes, 115 pencils containing cobalt-60 with a total activity of over 270 kilo curies were also produced.
• Radiation shielding windows of the hot cells of Isotope Handling Facilities in Cirus and Dhruva were replaced with new windows assembled in-house.
• Condition Monitoring of rotod-ynamic equipment was instituted as a regular practice which helped in prediction of incipient failures in several .

Activities related to the design of a new Critical Facility for carrying out Reactor Physics experiments for AHWR and 500 MWe Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors were completed. Procurement of various materials and equipment is in progress. Safety Analysis Report of the Project was submitted to safety authorities for approval.

Shop Trials of Poolside inspection facility in progress for underwater slitting of Dhruva fuel assembly flow tube

Chemistry of different process systems of the research reactors was monitored and controlled effectively. Appropriate chemistry procedures were developed and implemented for preservation of process systems of Cirus during refurbishing work. Over 1000 samples of light water, heavy water, helium gas and ion exchange resins were analysed during the year.
 
 

Dhruva Pneumatic Carrier Facility-Capsule Shooting and retrieval station

 Several reactor physics calculations and in-core measurements were performed to facilitate the PFBR shielding experiment at Apsara. Nuclear design studies were conducted for using plutonium or U-233 assemblies in the core of modified Apsara.

Reactor Design and Development

Major activities included the design and development of AHWR, providing R & D support for PHWR Programme, development of repair technologies, experimental activities to support safety research, vibration diagnostics related research and services, and reactor physics design and analysis.
 
 

Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR)

Work towards detailed engineering design of nuclear systems of AHWR reached an advanced stage. Optimization of thermal hydraulic design of AHWR, fuel design and experimental studies, reactor component design and process design was accomplished. Detailed layouts of equipment and systems in the reactor building were prepared. For the development of the AHWR fuel, full size fuel clusters in alternative design configurations were assembled and subjected to prolonged endurance tests under simulated flow.

AHWR REACTOR BLOCK

 An experimental set-up to study flow distribution in a natural circulation driven system was constructed.

Several experimental facilities were under installation for conducting thermal hydraulic studies and data generation for AHWR.

Reactor Engineering Research

Support for aging management activities for coolant channels of Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) was continued. Scrape samples from eight pressure tubes of MAPS-1 reactor were obtained. Repositioning of garter springs in thirty one channels was also carried out. The operating life for these channels was extended by 1.5 full power years. Analytical support was also provided for in-service inspection campaign by analysing more than 300 cases for MAPS-1 and KAPS-1 coolant channels using creepsag analysis computer code SCAPCA. Estimation of hydrogen concentration and prediction of blister growth were carried out for 300 coolant channels each of MAPS-1 and 2 using computer codes HYCON and BLIST.

Boat Sampling Technique (BST) was developed for obtaining in situ samples (boat shaped) from the core shroud of Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs), like Tarapur Atomic Power Station (TAPS).

Non-intrusive vibration diagnostic test was carried out on 111 numbers of MAPS-1 coolant channels for the identification of contacting coolant channels. Techniques for root cause identification of premature failure of equipment, for diagnostic monitoring and seismic qualification of equipment were implemented.

Assembly of Radiation Shielding window for replacement at Dhruva

 Consultancy and services were provided to various outside agencies in the field of vibration diagnostic monitoring, e.g. turbine blades in nuclear power plants, motor current signature analysis for conventional power plants of NTPC, root cause identification of vibrations for building structure of Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers (RCF) and Cancer Research Institute (CRI). Consultancy was also provided to German Railways for development of an on-board vibration monitoring system for high speed trains.

The Facility for Integrated System Behaviour Experiments (FISBE) is being used to study a number of safety related features of the PHWR. Experimental data were generated on single-phase & two-phase natural circulation.

Reactor Physics Design Analysis

In the area of reactor physics design studies, the major activities included physics design of AHWR, performing reactor physics experiments in BARC research reactors, providing design and safety analysis support to NPCIL on operating PHWRs and the 500 MWe PHWR, and developing nuclear data libraries and computational tools for these tasks.

Reactor Safety

Containment Safety Studies

Major civil work for the Control and Instrumentation room of the containment studies facility together with the foundation for the model Primary Heat Transport System vessel was completed and the work on electrical installations were progress. Design calculations for tube sheet and thermal analysis for Solid Waste Storage Surveillance Facility (S3F) at Kalpakkam were carried out. Post-test analysis was carried out for the experiments conducted on the simulated model for the solid waste storage surveillance facility. The design basis earthquake parameters for Kudankulam site were re-evaluated in the light of new data on the lineaments and the micro-seismic survey results. Fragility analysis for Reactor Building of RAPS-2 was carried out.

Probabilistic and Safety Studies Assessment

A complete PSA Level 1 study of MAPS based on operating experience as required by AERB is being carried out.

Power Plant Dynamic Studies

A computer code was developed to estimate the size and heat transfer area of the feed heaters in the AHWR (AHWR) system. A scheme was worked out to derive make-up water for the AHWR system from, seawater using steam from the lower stages of the turbine. A major modification was suggested for the steam generator pressure program for the 500 MWe PHWR power plant.

Reactor Core Thermal Hydraulic Safety Studies

A computer code DPPFBR was developed to simulate steam water hydrodynamics, heat transfer and control logics of the Once Through Steam Generator of the Proposed PFBR. A non-equilibrium model was developed for the prediction of leaks from a crack in pipes of Indian PHWRs.

Structural Safety Studies

On-line fatigue monitoring system was implemented in HWP, Tuticorin. Damage mechanics analyses were performed on number of fracture specimens and PHT pipes for Indian as well as German materials.

For AHWR containment, static analysis and design checks were carried out as per RCC-G for different loading combinations.

A systematic study was carried out on strain gauging of concrete surfaces. This systematic study culminated in successful measurements carried out during proof test of Kaiga-1 containment.

The BARC-MC (BARC – Monte Carlo) was developed in association with MPA, Stuttgart, Germany. The software estimates the probability of failure of cracked pipes.

Operator Support System And Instrumentation Studies

A Graphical User Interface programme incorporating virtual instrumentation was developed using ‘BridgeVIEW’ software and tested. Instrumentation for Nuclear Aerosol Test Facility (NATF), was completed. Portable coupon probes for collection of aerosol and for monitoring the coupon temperature were designed, fabricated and installed.

In the area of Human Reliability Analysis, quantification of human reliability was carried out in respect of the dominant human interactions involved in the execution of the Operating Procedure for Emergency Condition (OPEC) for the Station Black Out (SBO) event in Kaiga/ RAPP/ Indian PHWR.

Refuelling Technology

Wet INGRES equipment is under integral testing with repositioning tool and drive system.

Several modifications were made in the special seal plug MK-III for BARCIS. A new design of BARCIS sealing plug was developed to strengthen locking (latching) of the plug, that will avoid manual installation of locking during inspection. Wet scraping tool to take scrap samples from pressure tube in reactor in wet condition was developed.

Development work carried out related to PHWR includes an auxiliary drive to facilitate the rotation of magazine of fuelling machine, if it is stuck up.

Ninth and tenth fuelling machine heads for 220 MWe PHWR were handed over to NPCIL after completing acceptance test. Eleventh fuelling machine acceptance testing completed successfully.

Tribology Laboratory

Imported water lubricated stainless steel bearing is used in PHWR fuelling machine and Control rod drive mechanisms. Depending on the experience generated during testing complete plan was chalked out to develop and test these bearings indigenously.

Nuclear Fuels

The loading of indigenous mixed oxide (MOX) fuel assemblies (FAs) in Boiling Water Reactors at Tarapur is progressed as planned and all of them have performed exceedingly well.

Under PFBR MOX fuel development programme, work on fabrication of fuel pins for 37-pin PFBR experimental sub-assembly for irradiation in FBTR is in progress. Quality Control Plan to be followed was finalized and insulation pellets were fabricated. An indigenous Rotary Press for making PFBR size annular pellets was installed and is undergoing glove-box trials.

As part of the AHWR fuel cycle development studies on dissolution of sintered thorium oxide pellets under normal and microwave heating conditions carried out which has indicated that dissolution rate of ThO2 could be one order of magnitude higher using microwaves.

A 700 Watt microwave oven with isolation of magnetron from the glove-box environment was designed, fabricated and is undergoing trials in glove-box.

The IX Plan Project "Augmentation of Facilities at AFFF" is progressing satisfactorily. Most of the indigenous fabrication equipment were received and are being installed and tested.

Fuel Chemistry

Sol-gel microsphere pelletization process:

SGMP was developed for the preparation of microspheres of UO₂ and (U,Pu)O₂. Process parameters were optimised for the preparation of ThO₂ and (Th,2%U)O₂ pellets for their use in fabrication of fuel elements in AHWR.
 
 

Rechargeable neutron source

A novel type of low-cost rechargeable Po-Be source was developed as a result of collaborative work.

Setup for Hydrogen/Deuterium determination in coolant channel

A hot vacuum - quadrupole mass spectrometry (HVE-QMS) technique was developed for the determination of hydrogen/deuterium.

Non-destructive assay of Pu and Am

Gamma assay procedures for estimation of plutonium in the solid scrap and waste samples were developed.

SGMP for Thoria Microspheres Pellets

Atomic Fuels

Fuel elements were fabricated and supplied to CIRUS and Dhruva reactors as per requirements. Boron carbide control blades were fabricated and supplied to TAPS as per schedule. Developmental work was carried out for standardising fabrication procedures of dispersion type fuel and on laser processing of materials and NDT techniques.

Work with regard to scaling up of production and setting up of bigger facilities was taken up for Nb-Ti superconducting wires.

Apart from Quality Evaluation for divisional fabrication, Quality Surveillance work was carried out for other divisions of BARC, NFC, NPC and other DAE units. Specialised metallurgical fabrication, heat treatment, welding and NDT jobs were undertaken for various units of DAE.

Radiochemistry

Significant progress was made in the development of non-destructive assay techniques involving use of energy dispersive x-ray fluorescence, solid state nuclear track detection and neutron coincidence counting. Derivative neutron activation analysis method was developed for determination of boron. The guided thermal neutron beam at Dhruva research reactor facility was used to carry out prompt gamma neutron activation analysis for the first time. K_o factors for a large number of elements were determined. Feasibility studies on extension of ETV-ICP-AES analytical approach to axial viewing plasma were highly successful for direct determination of trace metals in uranium matrix.

Continous Soldering Unit for Low Temperature Superconducting Multi-filamentary wire

Studies on nuclear reactions and nuclear fission carried out using heavy ions have brought out contribution of incomplete fusion in understanding the mechanism of such reactions. Under the task force activity on research and development of luminescent phosphors, photo luminescence, thermally stimulated luminescence and electron paramagnetic resonance studies were carried out on various phosphors synthesized in BARC.

Radiometallurgy

Mixed Carbide fuel production for FBTR

Regular production of indigenously developed plutonium rich uranium-plutonium mixed carbide fuel of Mark-II composition continued and several sub-assembly load of fuel pins are shortly to be delivered at FBTR site. Fuel sub-assemblies of the initial compact core with Mark-I composition has behaved excellently. However, this fuel is being progressively replaced by fuel of Mark-II composition for enlarging the core size to reach the reactor design power of 40 MWt.

Thorium fuel development

High density ThO2 fuel pellets, needed for the fabrication of ThO2 fuel sub-assemblies for initial flux flattening in all the five new PHWRs, which came on stream recently were fabricated and delivered to NFC.

Development of various fuel fabrication techniques like powder - pellet route, impregnation route and sol-gel route are being studied for assessing their suitability for automation and remotization keeping in mind development and fabrication of fuels for AHWR.

Thermophysical and thermome-chanical properties data of these fuels were generated to evaluate these fuels and predict in reactor performance.

Development of mixed oxide fuel for PFBR

UO₂ containing 20-30%PuO₂ is the driver fuel for the forthcoming PFBR at Kalpakkam. Initial studies on the densification behaviour and kinetics of sintering of the above compositions were carried out.

Filmless X-ray Radiography

A novel X-ray Real-Time Radiography facility based on fluoroscopic screen was developed for the inspection of long nuclear fuel plates, fuel pins and light alloy castings

Fuel Recycle Programme

Nuclear Recycle Group is responsible for recovery of useful material from spent fuel after its use in research/power reactor. The Group is also responsible for safe management of radioactive waste generated by various nuclear facilities.

The Plutonium Plant in Trombay, which processes spent fuel from research reactors as well as the Tarapur & Kalpakkam Reprocessing Plants meant for spent fuel from power reactors operated satisfactorily during the year. Construction activities to revamp the Tarapur Reprocessing Plant have continued.

The waste management facilities at Trombay, Tarapur, Rawatbhata and Kalpakkam were operated safely throughout the year for the treatment/conditioning and disposal of low and intermediate level liquid waste streams.

The discharge of radioactivity to the environment was well below the authorized limit. At Trombay, the intermediate level alkaline liquid (IL) waste of fuel reprocessing origin, stored in tank, was processed using indigenously developed cesium selective resin in a mobile unit as this would facilitate treatment at different sites if need arises. At Tarapur, IL waste was immobilized in impregnated cement matrix directly at waste disposal site. With the revamping of the reprocessing unit at Tarapur, in the down stream facility to vitrify the high level liquid wastes, efforts to revamp and improve certain features of the Waste Immobilisation Plant were taken up. The low level waste management plants at Trombay, Tarapur and Kalpakkam which have provided continuous service for the last several decades are being augmented/revamped. Studies were taken up to investigate the effect of ageing on underground concrete trenches used for the disposal of radioactive solid waste. The study will help in carrying out necessary remediation when required and also in improving the design of future facility.

 
THO2-UO2 Pellets by Impregnation Technique Modified Route

The installation of Waste Immobilisation Project, Trombay was completed. After systematic testing of various equipment and systems, the low and intermediate level plants were commissioned without radioactivity and the commissioning of vitrification plant is in progress. At WIP, Kalpakkam, the civil work was completed and the mechanical and electrical works are in progress.

With a view to indigenise the key equipment like radiation shielding windows, remote handling gadgets etc. for carrying operations in the hot cell, the prototypes were developed and arrangements were being made for regular supplies.

Indigenous capability was developed in the country to meet the growing need of nitric acid grade stainless steel (304L) plates and pipes for reprocessing and waste management application. The engineering aspects for disposal of coolant tubes, end fittings etc during the coolant channel replacement programme at MAPS were worked out. Based on the operating experience on joule heated ceramic melter using materials without radioactivity, work was in progress for building a prototype unit with actual waste at Tarapur.

Continued emphasis was on the research and development efforts for the various programmes in fuel reprocessing and waste management. A membrane process was developed for the separation of yttrium used for medical application from high level waste. Techniques were being developed for the reprocessing of thorium fuels and AHWR fuel. A suitable glass matrix is being developed for the management of high level waste arising from thorium fuel cycle. Advanced oxidation techniques were being investigated for the conversion of spent organic ion-exchange resins to water soluble degradation products. Studies were also in progress for management of contaminated lubricating oils by incineration/cementation process. Use of biosorbants for the management of radioactive waste is being pursued. As safe waste management strategy for the High Level Waste (HLW) generated in reprocessing, a flowsheet based on solvent extraction and extraction chromatography was proposed to render the HLW safer for ultimate disposal. The scheme was tested with actual Purex HLW.

In Purex process, separation of uranium and plutonium involves reduction of P(IV) to Pu(III) as a process step. Conventionally, the reducing agent uranous nitrate prepared by electrolytic reduction of uranyl nitrate is used for this. An alternate method was developed for this purpose by reduction of uranyl nitrate with hydrogen gas in presence of platinum as catalyst. A pilot plant scale unit for uranous nitrate production was operated successfully.

Services were provided to many units of DAE for in-situ testing of air cleaning systems to minimise the release of radioactivity to the environment. The Group has developed a light weight and compact filter canister to provide protection to the workers in radioactive area against inhalation of airborne particulate, vapour and gas. The filter canisters, developed as an import substitution, are regularly supplied to nuclear power plants. The technology of testing of iodine filters, was transferred to the industry by BARC for its commercial use. Spent radiation sources after their use in hospital, industry, agriculture, academic institutions etc. from all over the country were collected and suitably stored/disposed in engineered containment systems.

Health Safety and Environment

Health Physics

Health Physics Units (HPUs) located at various nuclear power plants, fuel reprocessing plants, waste management facilities at Tarapur and Kalpakkam and at Rare Materials Plant, Mysore continued their radiological safety functions. These include radiological assessment of the plant areas, safety reviews and providing radiological safety coverage, exposure control during Operation & Maintenance activities in normal and special operations. Health physics coverage was provided to some of the special jobs undertaken and having potential for significant exposures.

At Kaiga Station (KGS) and RAPS 3&4, health physics laboratories and facilities were set-up. Reliability analysis of electrical power systems of PFBR Project was carried out.

All the ESLs located at power plant sites at Trombay participated in the intercomparison studies conducted by IAEA

Assessment of doses for postulated accident conditions for the Kaiga Generating Station (KGS) was carried out. Dose factors for unit activity release to air, both for short term and long term, at ground level and stack level for accident situations were also evaluated for RAPS 3&4.

Environmental Surveillance

Environmental Survey Laboratories were progressively upgraded/ augmented to carry out the environmental monitoring activities around the NPP site at RAPS 3&4.

The programmes of environmental and meteorological surveillance around nuclear power plants sites were continued by the Environmental Survey Laboratories located at NPP sites. The results of the surveillance indicate that the activity levels of fission and activation products in the environment continue to be insignificant. Whole body counting of around 2500 persons for internal contamination was also carried out at the various Environmental Survey Laboratories.

Environmental surveillance and monitoring programmes in and around BARC complex were continued.

Environmental Survey Laboratory, Kaiga was recognised as a centre for pursuing research in radiation physics and environmental chemistry by Manglore University, Manglore.

Modeling work was carried out for predicting the concentration of beryllium in ground water when beryllium bearing redmud waste is disposed in near surface disposal facility.

Automatic Weather Station (AWS) was installed at the BARC Hospital terrace. The Performance of the AWS was under test.

The work on the development of a sensitive analytical method for determining extremely low concentrations (ppb level) of Iodine in biological samples using pre-concentration neutron activation analysis (PCNAA) was completed. BARC’s is the first in Asian region to develop such a sensitive method for Iodine determination.

Materials Development Programme

Lithium Metal Pilot Plant

Process optimisation on 10 Kg batch scale for recovery of valueables from the ore was completed. Trial runs on 100 Kg batch scale have given encouraging results.

For the main processing plant equipment was installed and process piping was completed. Power supply, instrumentation and ventilation work are in advanced stage of completion.

Development of SF₆ Technology on Pilot Scale

Based on the results of the commissioning runs, a few modifications were carried out to the 5 tonnes per year nominal capacity Sulphur Hexafluoride pilot plant. As a result, stable and continuous operation of the plant was achieved. Qualitative analysis of the product gas has indicated the absence of the toxic impurities. The pilot plant is being operated for evaluating the equipment performance. In-Situ testing of the carbon anodes with improved carbon-to-metal joint was taken up.

Development of Carbon Anodes

The experimental facility for the development of carbon anodes was upgraded and trial production has commenced.

Uranium Slag Treatment Facility

Dry and Wet uranium slag treatment facilities were operated and required quantity of magnesium fluoride liner material was supplied to users.

Scintillation Chemicals

Polyvinyl toluene (PVT) based plastic scintillator blocks were fabricated using the process developed earlier for fabrication of the rods. Scintillating solutes (PPO) were prepared to meet the needs of PHWRs and other units of DAE. This material was also supplied to Ground Water Investigation Department, U.P.

Materials Research

The programme were continued on the development of advanced materials and processing techniques for a variety of metals, alloys, compounds and composites. The programmes have laid a good emphasis on basic and applied studies for the development of new and novel processes, flowsheet development work, fluidization, surface engineering, superconducting materials, structural and bioceramics, hydrogen mitigation materials, boron containing materials, recovery and fabrication of cobalt and advanced ceramics.

Experiments continued towards optimizing the synthesis and fabrication routes for advanced ceramics, such as borides, silicides and carbides, cobalt metal and carbon materials. Studies also continued on development of new processes for reduction and purification of refractory metals and alloys, development of hydrogen mitigation materials and specific products. Basic studies are continued on fluidization, phase diagram determination and purification of metals.

Experiments were conducted towards optimizing the synthesis routes for advanced materials envisaged under IX plan project.Inert Atmo-sphere Glove Box for calcium production was commissioned. Consistent results were obtained towards determination of phase diagrams through Electrolytic Conductance and Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) methods. High-density silicon carbide and boron carbide compacts were fabricated by vacuum hot pressing technique. A large number of surface engineered products were supplied to specific users.

Excellent facilities were established for carrying out bench and pilot scale studies on benefication of strategic and industrial minerals, expertise and facilities for carrying out petro-mineralogical and liberation studies of ores and their chemical analysis. The superconducting high gradient magnetic separator installed at Trombay is being operated successfully and the expertise and services are available for studies on ultra purification of clays.

The synthesis of rare earth phosphor Gd₂O₂S: Tb³⁺ was achieved for the first time in the country with quality matching that of imported phosphor.

Semi-batch flotation experiments were carried out on various phosphate ore samples from different blocks of Jhamarkotra phosphate deposit.

Keeping in view the requirement of BARC for Protactinium (231Pa) for its thorium utilization programme, methods were developed for its recovery from thorium concentrate and monazite.

Desalination

The 6300 m³/d Nuclear Desalination Demonstration Project (NDDP), Kalpakkam aims for demonstrating the safe and economic production of potable water from desalination of sea water.

The final performance evaluation of 30 m³/d sea water desalination plant was successfully completed before shifting to CIRUS for coupling with the primary heat source and utilizing the waste heat for production of demineralised makeup water. The desalination unit is ready for transfer to CIRUS. 40 m³/d RO plant for producing potable water from sea water was installed.

An MOU was signed with M/s. TAS Engineering Co., Thane for technical collaboration for thermal desalination units. Consultancy was provided to M/s. Fertilizer and Chemicals Travancore (FACT) Ltd., Udyogmandal (Kerala) on cooling water treatment for saving the life of heat exchangers and vessels in the ammonia, urea and petrochemical complex. Consultancy was provided to Gujarat Positra Port Infrastructure Limited (GPPIL) for sea water desalination plant at Positra Port (SEZ), Gujarat. Contributions were made to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) programme on Nuclear Desalination in various meetings and symposia.

Automation & Manufacturing

Remote Handling & Robotics

BARC has pursued the development of remote handling tools & techniques, manipulators, robots, teleoperated systems and application specific automation systems for hazardous operations and environments.

BARCIS (BARC Channel Inspection System)

BARCIS 2000 system for in-service inspection of coolant channels of MAPS-I and MAPS-II reactors was developed incorporating improvements based on operational experiences and supplied to MAPS. Using this system, training for operators from NAPS, KAPS, MAPS, RAPS and NPCIL Head office was conducted at BARC.

Reactivity Control Mechanism for TAPP-3 & 4

The detailed design of state-of-art control mechanisms for shut-of rods, adjuster rods and control rods of TAPP-3 & 4 was completed. The testing for design optimization was completed. Manufacturing and life-testing of the final prototype mechanisms was planned.

Development of Tools & Techniques

As part of the development of state-of-art technologies for in-service inspection of coolant channels the following were carried out.

Development of an advanced ultrasonic system for measuring diameter of pressure tubes of 220 MWe PHWRs

Experiments for detection of Zirconium hydride blisters are going on. Further experiments to qualify the technique for field use were on hand.

Development of an advanced miniature underwater radiation resistant CCTV camera suitable for delivery by BARCIS was in progress. Prototype optical and electronic components for the camera were developed and were undergoing irradiation testing.

Central Workshops

Central Workshops is the central facility to provide Engineering and Manufacturing support to various units of DAE.

Under the IX Plan, CWS is in the process of establishing an Advanced Precision Fabrication Facility, and over half of the equipments under this plan are already in place. Notable among such equipment is the Rapid Prototyping Facility, which is operational.

Electronic and Instrumentation Programme

The work on design, development and commissioning advanced computer based Instrumentation & Control (C&I) systems for RAPP-3, 4 & Kaiga-1, 2 was completed and successful operation of these systems was achieved. These systems regulate reactor power, control several important parameters, and support operators during normal and emergency operations. Some of the Systems and Instruments developed included:

1) Channel Temperature Monitoring Systems for RAPP-3, 4 & Kaiga-1, 2

2) Digital Recording Systems for RAPP-3, 4 & Kaiga-1, 2

3) Electrical SCADA System for RAPP-3, 4

4) Process Control System (DPHS-PCS) for Kaiga-1, 2 and RAPP-3, 4

5) Reactor Regulating System (DPHS-RRS) for Kaiga-1, 2 and RAPP-3, 4

6) Programmable Digital Comparator System (PDCS) Kaiga-1, 2 and RAPP-3, 4

7) Synchroscope for Kaiga Training Simulator Project

8) Development of Liquid Zone Control System (LZCS) of 500 MWe PHWR

C&I for AHWR

Initial identification of all C&I tasks for AHWR was completed. Development of modern control room and advanced information, control and safety systems required for the plant was commenced. A report on the results of a preliminary study of Modern Control Rooms of Nuclear Power Plants was compiled.

Fatigue Monitoring System for Heavy Water Plant, Tuticorin

An on-line Fatigue Monitoring System was developed to assess the structural degradation of components. The system was installed and commissioned at site and satisfactory results were obtained.

Special Purpose Electronics IPIG-Data Acquisition and data storage

Instrumented Pipe Inspection Gauge (IPIG) works on magnetic flux leakage principle to detect faults in under-ground pipeline. The special purpose electronics for Data Acquisition and Data Compression and on-line storage for hard disk based on low power electronics components was made to replace Pentium base standard electronics. This was done in order to conserve the battery power for the instrument.

Optical Parametric Oscillator (OPO)

The system is to precisely control OPO crystal differential angle movements in synchronism and to control the rotation of mirror to get narrow band tunable lasers. Based on prototype and experimental success with (OPO) the design for expansion for tracking and differential electronic gearing mechanism is over. The fabrication for multi-axis control is also under progress.

Development of a Formal Technique and Tools for Object Code Validation of SPARK-Ada programs

A formal technique for validation of object code generated by compilation of SPARK-Ada language programs was developed for the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).

Activities under other Electronics and Instrumentation included

Four channels of Reactor Regulating System developed as part of the RAPS#2 upgradation were supplied.

The field trials of the Portable Multi Channel Analyzer was carried out successfully. More units are being made for supply to various users.

System design of In-core Flux Mapping System for 500MW reactors was completed

A number of electronic systems and detectors like Radiation monitors, Neutron flux monitor, Area Gamma monitors were developed

Development of Gamma Ion Chambers for environmental and area monitoring applications of all GERMON,

BRIT’s hot cell facilities at Kota and IMA facility at CAT, Indore were completed. The prototypes of all these applications were ready and under testing.

Development of fast photon counting modules

Photon counting system was developed for counting narrow pulses at very high rate (100 MHz) and very low rise time within a specified fixed interval.

Data Acquisition Systems (DAS) for single & multiple Position Sensitive detector (PSD) based neutron diffractometer was developed.

Ultrasonic Imaging Systems: Ultrasonic Imaging System for NDT with many advanced features was fabricated and supplied to NFC, Hyderabad and other outside users.

PC based Video Frame Acquisition card was developed for capturing images frim video camers

A PCI bus based dual channel 100 Million Samples Per Second (MSPS) digitizer board was developed and successfully evaluated.

Computer.

The processing speed available on ANUPAM supercomputers was enhanced by development of a 16 node ANUPAM Pentium super computer using industry standard Pentium-III personal computers as nodes and fast Ethernet switches as inter-communication network. The ANUPAM supercomputer giving a sustained computational speed of 3500 M flops (Million Floating Point instructions per second), is the fastest and most cost effective supercomputers available in the country. One such supercomputer was supplied to Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Bangalore in June 2000 for solving computational fluid dynamic problems related to the design of Light Compact Aircraft (LCA). Another ANUPAM-Alpha supercomputer was commissioned at National Centre for Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), New Delhi replacing the obsolete CRAY supercomputers being used so far, resulting in the saving in huge annual maintenance cost. ANUPAM-Alpha at NCMRWF is functioning satisfactorily for the past one year. Various models of ANUPAM Parallel systems were supplied to NPCIL, Mumbai, Institute of Physics, Bhuvaneswar, Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvan-anthapuram and MS University, Baroda. Using the current technology of design of ANUPAM super-computers, it is feasible to configure a supercomputer meeting any requirement up to 100 Giga Flops (Gflops).

It is planned to develop a 64 node ANUPAM-Pentium supercomputer, giving a sustained speed of 25,000 Mflops(25 Gflops) soon.

A campus wide network, connecting various laboratories, using fiber optic cables for supporting 3000 personal computers for Intranet application at BARC was set up. This network would provide secure access to Stores, Administration, Accounts, Library and other data base servers.

A new 5000 lines ISDN(Integrated Service Digital Network) telephone exchange with a support for 5000 voice lines and 1000 data lines was commissioned at BARC in August, 2000.

A software package was developed for three dimensional computational simulation studies of digital radiographic and computed tomographic imaging process which is of immense help in understanding the underlying process without resorting to experimental set up.
 

Physical Sciences

Accelerator & Pulsed Power

A 500 KeV, 10 kW Industrial Electron Accelerator meant for carrying out materials process development - such as, plastics modifications by irradiation - is being evaluated at 3.5 KW level for continuous operation for long hours.

500 KeV Industrial Accelerator at Vashi, Navi Mumbai and Electron Gun Accelerator

Progress was made on the construction of the main building and auxiliary facilities needed for Electron Beam Centre (EBC) being jointly set up by BARC and SAMEER at Kharghar, Navi Mumbai. The EBC will house two indigenously built industrial accelerators with ratings of 3 MeV/30kW and 10 MeV/10kW. The fabrication and testing of some critical subsystems of these two accelerators were at various stages of completion. Important applications to be carried out at EBC include plastics modifications, food preservation, sterilization of medical products and cross-linking of cables etc.

Amongst the Pulsed Electron Beam Accelerators, work on KALI-1000 (300 kV, 60 kA, 50 ns) and KALI-5000 (1MV, 80 kA, 60nS) was continued. It is being used for collecting data on damage thresholds of various electronic devices, with a view to evolve protection technology.

A variety of novel and compact pulse power sources were developed. These power sources are being adapted for specialized applications such as generation of electron-beam-pumped carbon dioxide laser at Trombay.

Pulsed magnetic fields upto 30 Tesla were generated by discharging the energy stored in capacitor banks using fast spark gaps. Such magnetic fields were used for cold impact welding and metal forming by high energy-rate forming processes. The feasibility of realizing three basic operations of fuel-pin fabrication of DHRUVA reactor viz. plug collapsing, aluminum cladding and welding were successfully established. A dedicated facility for this purpose is being established. The feasibility has also been established for magnetoforming of zircalloy tube for AHWR using aluminum driver.

Nuclear Research Laboratory

Nuclear Research Laboratory is setting up an international-class astronomical research facility at Mt. Abu, Rajasthan to study high energy gamma sources in the cosmos. As part of this programme, an array of 4 gamma-ray telescope systems called the TACTIC, was already been set up at Mt. Abu. The central element of this system, a state-of art imaging telescope, was used for several observational campaigns and it has successfully detected a very high energy gamma-ray outburst from an extragalactic source called Markarian 501. Development work for setting up a bigger telescope system, called MACE, was also commenced.

A novel strategy was devised for enhancing S/N ratio of the data recorded by the TACTIC array. From the arrival time information registred by a spaced-array of wide-angle Cerenkov detectors a feasibility study was also successfully conducted, to assess the potential of an artificial neural network for determining the direction of incidence of an atmospheric Cerenkov event.

In theoretical astrophysics, the detectability of various types of galactic and extragalactic sources with the TACTIC array and other telescope systems at Mt. Abu, was studied in detail and a catalogue of most promising sources was prepared.
 
 
 
 

TACTIC Imaging Telescope

Nuclear Physics

The Folded Tandeom Ion Accelerator FOTIA facility at BARC. This indigenously build accelerator produced its first beam on target at 9:30 pm on Friday, April 21,2000 was completed and comissioned. The beams will be used for research in basic and applied sciences in the field of nuclear physics, astrophysics, material science, accelerator mass spectrometry, atomic spectroscopy, etc.

The construction of the accelerator has led to development of many state of the art technologies like dipole magnets, high voltage generator, SF6 gas handling system, vacuum systems, magnetic and electrostatic lenses, computer control system and front line electronics, etc.

At the BARC-TIFR Pelletron accelerator, a Superconducting Linear Accelerator (LINAC) is being constructed with a view to boost the energy of heavy ion beams.

Using the first radioactive ion beam of ⁷Be, made available at the Nuclear Science Centre, Delhi, BARC scientists in collaboration with the NSC group, conducted studies on an important nuclear reaction viz. the d(⁷Be, ⁸B)n. The data of this reaction is of importance for exploring the underlying cause for the observed deficit of solar neutrinos.

Theoretical Physics

A neutron kinetics model using modal synthesis method with various feedbacks was developed for full scope training simulator for Kaiga reactors. This model was validated and incorporated in the simulator with the help of engineers of Simulator Group of NPCIL.

Three feasible options for engineering design of proposed high temperature reactor (HTR) critical test facility were analysed using Monte Carlo method.

Two-dimensional transport theory calculations in cylindrical r-z geometry and with 69 energy groups confirmed the one-way coupled core concept for accelerator driven subcritical systems and give a neutron multiplication in good agreement with the earlier one dimensionsal estimates. Analytical solutions of the burnup equations with a time varying flux in an Accerator Driven Subcritical System (ADSS) were obtained.

Two cross section libraries were obtained from IAEA as part of WIMS library update project. The cross section libraries were used to assess the sensitivity of a new reactor design viz A Thorium Breeder Reactor (ATBR) with Pu seed. An algorithm on artificial neural network was developed and applied to learn and predict steam table’s saturated pressures as function of density and internal energy.

Theoretical work pertaining to quantum and nonlinear effects in the interaction of electromagnetic radiation with atoms in free space, cavities and laser-cooled harmonic traps, has now been augmented by way of proposing designs for the logic gates for quantum computing and study of optical processes in semiconductor microstructures, like quantum dots.

Ab-initio studies of the behaviour of materials at ambient and high pressures are being pursued. A number of new results in the semiclassical theory of Hamiltonian chaos were published. These are aimed also at understanding the quantum chaology. Astrophysics was among other activities being pursued in the group.

Technical Physics & Prototype Engineering

Two Thermal Ionisation Mass Spectrometers (TIMS) - were install-ed and commissioned at BARC and Kalpakkam. Such machines are of strategic importance and often difficult to import. In addition a process gas mass spectrometer (PGMS), also for isotopic ratio measurement, was fully assembled. Evaluation of its performance with xenon gas samples is now underway.

A short sample test facility (SSTF) was completed to characterize samples of superconducting cables at liquid helium temperature with a maximum current carrying capacity up to 1500 Amp.

A magnet current regulator with local and remote controls for FOTIA was completed and installed. A DC arc power supply unit was fabricated, tested and delivered to AMD at Hyderabad for use in their Atomic Emission Spectrometer. The systems was integrated with the spectrometers for routine analysis.

Vacuum system based H₂ monitoring units for use in FBTR, Kalpakkam were developed where a combination of cryosorption & sputter ion pumps are used. Five such systems were delivered and seven more are being built. An open type linear motion feedthrough was developed for use in beam line instruments. Technology for Triode Sputter Ion Pumps ranging from 35 to 270 litre per sec capacity was transferred to a small-scale industrial unit.

A new PC based control cum data acquisition system was developed for a crystal puller that was earlier procured from Russia. The system was integrated with the puller to carry out a growth run in automated diameter control mode Regular production of crystals already developed was another major activity pursued and supply of a variety of crystals was continued.

Magnesium aluminum silicate (MAS) glass ceramic with improved machinability, reduced outgassing and high voltage breakdown strength was developed following glass route. Development of 76 pin precision glass to metal seals for strategic application was successfully carried out. Production of direct reading pocket dosimeters (DRDs) was continued and twenty DRDs were supplied to Nuclear Training Centre at Dalat, Vietnam in addition to NPCIL and other users.

Using photolithography technique, process for patterning of thin films was standardized. For fabrication of SQUID devices and making junctions on high -Tc -material thin films photomasks were designed and made.

High Pressure Physics

Experimental Studies on the MAGIC-280 Capacitor-Bank

Experimental studies were continued on MAGIC-280 Capacitor Bank Facility. A five-channel x-ray pin-diode spectrometer was commissioned. Use of identical filters with the diodes produces identical signals.

A new CCD based Raman system

A new CCD based Raman system was set up using a 460mm single stage spectrograph. Raman data was collected from a number of standard samples such as CCI4, quartz, silica, diamond etc.

High Pressure Experiments at ELETTRA

High-pressure ADXRD experiments were carried out at the ELETTRA synchrotron source.

A new facility for Ion Implantation Studies on metal surfaces using A 400 KeV Accelerator

A programme was initiated to study the surface modifications in materials by ion implantation technique using 400 keV accelerator.

Solid State Physics

Important Studies made during the year were:

X-ray diffraction study of zircon (ZrSiO₄) and other important minerals

Structural Investigations on HIV-1 protease complexed to an inhibitors

Laser and Plasma Technology

BARC, in collaboration with the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre has developed, tested and qualified a 250 kW simulation plasma source called Constricted arc plasma generator for testing the strategic thermal protection systems for rocket motors and reentry simulator devices. The design development was executed at VSSC where as detailed testing and evaluation was done at BARC. The programme was successfully completed during the current year with all objectives achieved. The BARC team is presently assisting the VSSC for installing one 250 kW plasma unit at Thiruvanantapuram which in future will be extended to 1 MW plasma unit. This is a good example of a high technology area of strategic importance where DAE and the Department of Space have worked together and contributed effectively.

A multidisciplinary team of BARC has completed the prospecting of protactinium (²³¹Pa), one of the rares t elements on the earth’s crust and which occurs in 0.1-9 ppb concentration level of insoluble muck at Indian Rare Earths plant Alwaye. A process was developed and demonstrated in a 30 kg batch pilot plant. A 150 kg batch plant was set up to produce protactinium in tens of milligram quantities.

Spectroscopy

Laser cooling

First milestone in the project of laser cooling namely attainment of Doppler cooling was now achieved. Diagnostics for measuring the temperature and fine tuning the system is in progress.

Matrix-Assisted laser Desorption / Ionization

Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption cum Ionization, acronymed "MALDI" is an important subproject of one of the two larger IX plan projects undertaken by BARC. It is a laser-based tech-nique for the detection of biomolecules at extremely trace levels, combining the ablative power (suitably mitigated through the matrix) of the laser and high efficiency of detection of the dislodged molecules by time of flight mass spectrometry. The first MALDI signals from lysozyme (14 kDa protein) dispersed in dilute aqueous solution of gentistic acid were detected.

Application of Zygo interferometer for heavy water analysis

The refractive indices of heavy water in the purity range of 0-100% were measured with an accuracy of 5% using Zygo interferometer.

VUV Reflectivity Experiments

In continuation the VUV experiments at the IUC for DAE Facilities at CAT, using a Penning Discharge source and 1-m Seya-Namioka monochromator, a detailed study of the source was taken up.
 

Seismology

The seismic arrays at Gauribidanur (GBA) and Delhi (DSU) continued to operate satisfactorily. Systematic compilation of basic parameters of seismic events detected at these arrays continued on routine basis. An off-line seismic data processing system was developed and commissioned at the DSU to augment the existing processing capability. A few hardware units and Uninterrupted Power Supply systems needed for round-the-clock operation of these arrays were installed.

Development and commissioning of advanced seismic systems at GBA under the IX Plan Project progressed satisfactorily. Seven field stations GBA were upgraded with state of the art systems. Civil work at remaining field stations progressed well.

The work Pertaining to the technique of seismic signal detection using fractal dimensions progressed well. Analysis of many signal and noise waveforms yielded encouraging results. Spectrogram analysis was applied to the seismic signals generated by micro-earthquakes and quarry blasts.

To study the spectral characteristics of seismic events at local distances (Distance<200km) the GBA waveform data corresponding to some micro-earthquakes and quarry blasts from Kudremukh and Bellary regions were analysed.

A wide-band three component digital seismic system was developed put in operation at Trombay.

Chemical Sciences

Analytical Chemistry

Analytical service support was provided inhouse, units of DAE and other organizations. A total of 3291 samples involving 8242 determinations were analysed. Sophisticated analytical techniques like atomic absorption spectrometry using flame and graphite rod atomization, plasma emission spectrometry; electro analytical techniques, elemental analysers for C, H, N, O determination, nuclear analytical methods/specialized thermal analysis techniques, chromatographic methods and particle and surface area analysers were employed.

New procedures were developed for the rapid and efficient analysis of nuclear and related materials. The newly procured ICPAES was employed extensively for the analysis of trace impurities in uranium, thorium, biological and environmental materials and of elements like Se, Te, Ce As, Hg etc. which were difficult to be analysed by existing methods. Procedures were developed for the analysis and preconcentration of arsenic in ground water; estimation of fluoride in materials like U and Al and also in ground water samples of Bakreswar springs of West Bengal, iodine in milk; iodate and sulphate in common salt etc. Analytical chemistry techniques were used in no.of projects of BARC. These were recovery of Pa from thorium bearing streams for processing of monazite at IRE, Alwaye; recovery of uranium from low level sources like sea water or phosphoric acid; estimation of hydrogen in zircaloy using heavy ion activation analysis; determination of trace metallic impurities in high purity materials of strategic importance determination of trace impurities in thorium for its effective utilization; determination of helium in hot springs of Bakreswar in collaboration with the helium recovery project for possible recovery of technically important He gas. Intercomparison exercises on U₃O₈, zircaloy, pesticides, reference seawater, etc.,were also conducted.

Studies were made on the solvent extraction and ion exchange behaviour of uranium and thorium. Electrochemical and chromatographic studies were carried out on materials of nuclear interest. Nuclear methods were employed for the development of selective analytical procedures for certain determination BARC collaborated with CFSL, Hyderabad and GSI, Pune on the use of nuclear techniques. Training on sophisticated analytical techniques was provided to students of various universities. Consultancy was provided to nuclear power stations, heavy water projects, BRNS, DST, BIS, BPR&D and other organizations.

Applied Chemistry

The chemical decontamination of clean up system of TAPS-1 was carried out successfully.

A H2-O2 recombiner device was designed and fabricated for application in nuclear installations under accident conditions. New catalysts were prepared and tested for this purpose. Guest-host interactions in micro and mesoporous zeolites were investigated.

Iodine and tellurium release from thoria-2 mol% urania fuel irradiated at low dose was studied at 1500-1800 K. The data will be useful to assess the fuel performance in the proposed AHWR. For assessing the compatibility of nickel base steel clads at very high burn up in FBR, thermodynamic stability of nickel tellurate was measured. Phases in Rb-Th-O and Rb-Zr-O systems were identified and their thermal behaviour were characterized.

Lattice and bulk thermal expansion behaviour of solid solutions of ThO2 and CeO2 in the complete homogenity range was investigated. To study the effect of fission products on thermal expansion behaviour of ThO2, preparation, characterization and thermal expansion behaviour of thoria doped with various fission products was undertaken. A number of mixed fluorides were prepared and characterized. Work on materials with negative thermal expansion was initiated. A few molybdates were investigated for thermal expansion behaviour.

Redox reactions of some Cu(II) amine complexes were carried out using pulse radiolysis to study the stability of Cu(I) amine complexes.

Bio-organic Chemistry

The phytochemical and biological evaluation of some indigenous medicinal plants were continued with the prime objective of isolating new and highly potent radiomodifiers and anti-cancer compounds. The plant Tinospora cordifolia, found extensively in various Ayurvedic formulations was investigated in detail leading to the isolation of a polysaccharide with impressive radioprotecting property. Another polysaccharide showing protection against ?-ray induced damage of lipid and protein was isolated from the edible plant, Asparagus racemosus.

Protoberberine alkaloids like berberine and jatrorrhizine are very useful medicinal compounds showing antimicrobial, antileukemic, antineoplastic activities. A simple protocol for the isolation of the alkaloids, berberine and jatrorrhizine from the plant T. cordifolia was developed and their positive role in preventing g -ray induced DNA damage was established by in vitro experiments.

Plant tissue and cell culture is a viable technique for producing useful secondary plant metabolites. Using callus culture of the plant T. cordifolia, a simple method of production of the protoberberine alkaloids was developed.

Facile synthetic methods were developed for the synthesis of various calixarene derivatives.

The sweet potato weevil is an agriculturally important pest causing extensive damage to the crop. The efficacy of its pheromone for efficient control of the pests under environmentally- benign conditions was demonstrated by all India field trial experiments. An effective and cheap pheromone dispenser for its field application was developed and a process for uniform pheromone loading standardized. A parapheromone formulation was developed for the control of the American bollworm, a serious pest for the cotton crop. Its potential in controlling the pest menace has also been evaluated under field condition.

National Centre for Compositional Characterization Materials

The Centre was offering its analytical services to various industrial units and research labs. In house R&D for the development of newer analytical methodologies were continued. Methods for leaching out impurities ingrained in quartz powder, for its purification and use in fabrication of electronic grade materials were investigated. A cost effective method was developed for this purification. In addition methods for the analysis of metallic and non-metallic impurities in the quartz powder samples were developed and were in use to assist an indigenous manufacturer for making high purity quartz in the country both for export and also for making fused quartz. Resonance Ionization Mass Spectrometric studies on the isotopic selective ionization of odd isotopes of gadolinium and 41Ca isotopes were carried out.

Compositional analysis of Si3N4 layers was carried out on Si and GaAs substrates using ion-beam analytical techniques. The analysis of hydrogen and fluorine in these layers have also been carried out to understand their role in determining the physical characteristics of these films. These analyses were done on samples from Semiconductor Complex Ltd., Hyderabad. Hard binary and ternary nitride layers are deposited using DC Magnetron sputtering under optimised conditions and the relationship of their properties in relation to composition are being studied. Studies on the preparation by different synthetic routes and micro-structural features on doped polycrystalline barium titanate, an electronic ceramic material progressed were under study.

Techniques were developed for the separation and determination of arsenic(III) and arsenic(V) species in drinking/ground waters. A remediation approach for the removal of arsenic from ground water samples was developed and tested to provide water well below the WHO recommended levels. Methods for the direct analysis of ceramics using a secondary cathode approach using the glow discharge mass spectrometry are being developed. Depth profiling studies on the determination of elemental composition of thin film samples were under standardised with cross validation using ion-beam techniques. The technique of slurry sampling and determination of trace elements using rapid atomization GFAAS technique was standardized for the analysis powdered pharmaceuticals and dry biological samples without recourse to chemical dissolution.

Novel Materials & Structural Chemistry

Materials investigated include nuclear materials, nano-materials, high purity materials, organometallic complexes and hydrogen storage materials. Thermal conductivity studies on ThO₂, Th_0.98U_0.02O₂ and U₃O₈ were continued and a theoretical model was identified to evaluate the conductivity at elevated temperatures, where data is not available. Thermal conductivity measurements on ThO₂-2% UO₂ SIMFUEL are being planned. Studies, having relevance to immobilisation of radioactive waste, were carried out on lead phosphate glasses substituted with ThO₂.

Nano sized metal particles were prepared in aqueous medium as well as glass structures and their reactivity and physico chemical characteristics were investigated. Mesoporous zeolite samples were prepared and nano sized metal particles were incorporated in the cages of the zeolites. Photofragmentation and ionisation studies were carried out for a number of atmospherically important organic molecules in gas phase and the mechanism of these processes was elucidated. Based on solid state MAS, NMR and XRD studies of Sn_1-xTi_xO₂ solid solution, it was demonstrated that the ion clustering takes place at atomic scale in the system, although the bulk material is a single phase solid solution.

Methodology was developed for ultrapurification of two strategic materials and for preparation of a few novel organometallic precursors for moderate temperature chemical vapour deposition. First time hydriding of some Ce and U based heavy fermion intermetallics was carried out and new hydride phases were stabilised, identified and their structural and magnetic properties elucidated. In continuation with application oriented activity, highly adherent diamond coatings were given on a few phosphorous bronze components required by the department. To get information about interphase layers and stress distribution in the vicinity of the interface, cross-sectional sample geometry configuration was used for the first time in the country, for micro-Raman spectroscopy examination of the interface between diamond coating and silicon substrate.

Radiation Chemistry & Chemical Dynamics

BARC continued to focus its attention in the thrust areas of research in radiation and photochemistry, laser chemistry, chemical dynamics and theoretical chemistry. A laser photolysis-laser induced fluorescence (LP-LIF) facility was developed to study gas phase photodissociation reaction and was successfully used to monitor OH radicals produced during photodissociation of molecules like acetic acid, trifluoroacetic acid. A femtosecond laser kinetic absorption spectrometer has also been developed. Electron transfer and excited state properties of a variety of biomolecules were investigated in homogeneous as well as heterogeneous media using linear electron accelerator (LINAC) and laser flash photolysis techniques. Radiolytically generated nanoparticles were prepared and their catalytic properties were studied. Free radical reactions of substituted quinones and fullerene derivatives were evaluated. Antioxidant properties of plant extracts have also been determined. PVA-based hydrogen was prepared by gamma irradiation and clinically evaluated for their effectiveness in burn patients in local hospitals with success. Theoretical studies include ab-initio calculations of photoelectron spectra, isotope effects in simple chemical reactions, polymers at interfaces and electric-double layer at electrode-electrolyte interfaces. Dr. P.K. Bose Memorial Award and Rev. Fr. Yedanapalli Memorial Award by Indian Chemical Society and A.K. Bose Memorial Award by Indian National Science Academy were conferred on scientists. International symposium TSRP-2000 was successfully organized at BARC.

Water & Steam Chemistry Laboratory

The knowledge of ‘activity transport’ ie., the distribution of radioactivity around the reactor coolant circuit is of importance from the point of view of maintenance of nuclear power reactors. A mathematical code ‘RADTRAN’ meant for VVER-440 reactor was obtained as part of collaborative work with VEIKI institute, Budapest, Hungary and the same was suitably modified as per PHWR conditions. Chemical cleaning of steam generators can help in mitigating the problem of tube failures. Also, it improves the heat transfer efficiency of steam generators by removing the insulating deposits present over the tube surfaces. Work was carried out to choose a suitable chemical process for cleaning the steam generators having monel-400 tubes. Experimental investigations were carried out to characterize the sludge present in MAPS/RAPS steam generators and to evaluate the sludge dissolution efficiency of EDTA (Ethylene Diamine tetra acetic acid) based chemical cleaning formulation under different chemistry conditions. Based on these studies a two stage chemical cleaning process, one for the removal of copper deposits and other for iron and other constituents of the sludge was recommended for the chemical cleaning of the steam generators having monel-400 tubes.

Field studies were carried out to investigate the cooling water problems of Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) and Rajasthan Atomic Power Station(RAPS). An investigation of fouling of an anion exchange bed of a Heavy Water Plant(Kota) was carried out.

Application of Radiation Technology

Radiopharmaceuticals

Production, processing and supply of important reactor produced radionuclides

1200 Curies of reactor produced medical radioisotopes such as ¹³¹I, ⁹⁹Mo, ³²P, ⁵¹Cr and ¹⁵³Sm and 70 Curies of industrial tracers such as ⁸²Br, ²⁰³Hg and ⁴⁶Sc were produced and supplied. Production and processing of the therapeutic radionuclides ¹⁷⁷Lu, ¹⁷⁵Yb and ¹⁶⁶Ho were standardised.

Actual loop set-up at MAPS

Radioactive sources, Radiopharma-ceuticals and Radiometric assays ¹⁶⁶Ho labelled hydroxyapatite particles were prepared and supplied for clinical trial for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. In all nearly 60 joints were treated and the results were very encouraging with several patients getting relief to various extents. This product could be supplied regularly after necessary clearance.

⁹⁰Y, a therapeutic radionuclide of great potential, prepared and supplied from a novel ⁹⁰Sr-⁹⁰Y generator by the Process Development Division was used for preparation of skin patches for treatment of superficial cancers. The results obtained in fibrosarcoma tumour model are excellent with complete regression of the tumour. Radiolabelled phosphonates are used for palliation of pain due to bone metastasis. 177Lu-EDTMP was tested as a novel preparation and found to be suitable.

³²P incorporated stents were shown to be useful in prevention of arterial restenosis in patients treated by angioplasty. 115 stents with electro-deposited ³²P were prepared and supplied to various centres for clinical evaluation. Results obtained thus far are encouraging. Use of radioactive liquid filled balloons are also advocated for the same purpose. Towards this end, several radiolabelled preparations, namely, ¹⁸⁶Re-Ethylene Cysteine(EC), ¹⁸⁸Re-EC, ¹⁶⁶Ho-EC, ¹⁶⁶Ho-DTPA, ⁹⁰Y-DTPA and ⁹⁰Y-DOTA were tested and hold potential for balloon angioplasty.

The procedure to incorporate ¹²⁵I on palladium coated silver seeds at 1 to 4.5 mCi per seed and 70-80 seeds per batch, was optimised. These will be shortly released for clinical trial for use in treatment of eye and prostate cancers.

Various ¹³⁷Cs sources, for irradiation and calibration were supplied. A radioimmunometric assay for the measurement of total PSA in human serum was developed as a part of IAEA-CRP

Isotope Technology Applications

Isotope Hydrology

Radiotracer investigations were conducted using ⁴⁶Sc on bed load movement near Sagar dumping buoy, Calcutta and with ⁸²Br to study dilution and dispersion of sewage effluent discharged through the Worli submarine outfall system, Mumbai.

Isotope geochemical and hydrological techniques were applied to understand the source of groundwater salinity in Chennai and Kuttanad (Kerala), to identify the source of recharge in Kolar (Karnataka) and to understand the source and the mechanism of arsenic mobilisation water sources West Bengal.

Isotope Instrumentation

The Cs-137 Isotope based CT system in operation was upgraded to improve the load performance characteristics. A Nucleonic Suspended Sediment Concentration Gauge based on the backscattering of the gamma radiation from a small Cs-137 isotope source was developed. The unit is first of its kind developed in India to assist dredging operations in ports.

Sealed Sources/NDT Applications, Tracer Technology Services & Hot Cell Operations

Radiotracer studies were carried out with Co-60 to track the 350 km pipeline of petroleum from Visakha-patnam to Vijayawada and with ⁸²Br to detect the leakage points in the natural gas pipeline of Gas Authority of India Ltd.

Gamma Scanning of distillation columns and degasser coulmns were carried out at the request of M/s. Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, Mumbai and M/s. Indian Petrochemicals Corporation Ltd., Vadodara respectively for the purpose of "Trouble Shooting".

Radiography testing of the SS Links at the CIRUS reactor and the Tungsten - Copper Blocks at Atomic Fuels Division were performed to inspect them for defects.

A week long IAEA/RCA Regional Training Workshop on Advanced Application of Radiotracers to Study Effluent Dispersion into Sea was organised.

Radiation Technology Development

Hydrogel for burn/wound dressing:

Clinical trials of radiation processed hydrogels are nearly complete. Technology for large scale production of hydrogel burn/wound dressing using radiation processing was upgraded and is now ready for transfer.

Development of wire & cable process technology using EB:

The ILU-6 facility was shifted to BARC Vashi complex successfully. The under beam figure of eight type wire and cable conveyor was successfully installed at ILU-6 accelerator for uniform irradiation. Approximately 60 km length cable was irradiated in the dose range of 70-125 kGy. 8000 carats of diamonds were irradiated in EB using standard parameters for enhancing their colour and commercial value. Both these products have extensive export market. EB irradiation was used to develop polypropylene based amidoxime grafted membranes for selectively recovering uranium from sea water and grafting yields as high as 125 % were achieved. Samples of size 6" x 6" were tested under actual sea conditions and were found to retain the integrity and exhibited high selectivity for uranium uptake from sea water.

Bio Sciences Programme

Nuclear Agriculture and Biotechnology

During the past one year BARC has made major impact in the areas of nuclear agriculture and biotechnology. One of the significant contributions is the development of a yellow mosaic virus resistant blackgram variety, TU-94-2, for the Southern Zone. The BARC blackgram varieties now account for over 50% of the total blackgram seed indent of Government of India. One high yielding soyabean variety TAMS-38 was released in Maharashtra in this year. After the development of several high yielding and widely adapted TG groundnut varieties, work on combining several radiation-induced mutants to develop large seeded groundnut with maturity of 120 days was initiated. For the past one year several such selections of single seed weight of 1.2 to 1.3 g were obtained. This work has opened up the possibility to use groundnut as a cheap source of nutritious food. BARC has made significant impact in generating. Sesbania rostrata (TSR-1) which can grow throughout the year and a 60 day old crop can furnish about 150 kg nitrogen from a biomass of 10 tons per hectare. This green manure technology is highly cost effective for the small farmers.

Large scale multiplication of pineapple by micropropagation was standardised. From a single bud of a crown over 95 plants are produced within 6 months compared to one plant from a single crown in conventional propagation practiced by the farmers. Practically 1000-1200 plants can be micropropagated from 10-12 dormant buds of a single crown. The development of biotransformation process for production of arbutin from Catharanthus roseus cells in bioreactor was standardised. Arbutin is used to suppress melanin in human skin and is used in the preparation of sunscreen cream and various cosmetics. Various biosorbents were developed for the remediation of heavy metals and uranium.

Food Technology

Insect disinfestations studies on pulse products such as besan were carried out which showed that radiation processing of legumes and re-irradiation of basan was not found to alter the functional properties of besan. The shelf-life of fruits including mango, banana, papaya, chickoo (sapota) and pineapple could be extended by the application of gamma radiation. Radiation processing can be used as an effective quarantine treatment for fruits, vegetables and cut flowers.

Ready-to-cook ambient-stable meat products were developed from chicken and mutton using gamma radiation. Radiation preservation of commercially important varieties of fish was standardised. These products were approved by the experts from CIFE, Fisheries Department, Government of Maharashtra, MPEDA, and CIFT, Cochin.

Food Irradiator (POTON) Project

A commercial scale demonstration project for Food Irradiator is being completed at Lasalgaon, Nashik. The project is scheduled to be ready for operation by July 2001 with a throughput of 10 Tons/hour of potatoes and onions.

Cell Biology

Studies to investigate the effects of continuous low level radiation exposure on human health, modification of radiation effects at cellular and molecular level by naturally occurring compounds and the biology of adaptive response to abiotic stresses were continued.

PC-based Digital imaging systems for measuring DNA damage

Single cell gel electrophoresis is a sensitive technique for monitoring the damage to cellular DNA by various genotoxic agents like radiation. The software SCGE-Pro was developed for using the "Comet" assay and was rigorously validated using human and mouse leucocytes.

Immunological studies

An immunomodulatory polysaccharide isolated earlier from the medicinal plant Tinospora cordifolia (Gulvel or Guduchi) was shown to bind a large proportion of macrophages (a kind of phagocytic cells)and injection of this immunomodulator to mice 24 h prior to that of the bacterial endotoxin LPS totally prevented death due to endotoxic (septic) shock. A process patent application was accepted by the Mumbai office of the Examiner of patents.

Radiation Biology

Radioprotection of Gamma Irradiated Mice by Caffeine

One such strategy is the use of antioxidants especially natural products, which would scavenge the damaging reactive oxygen species induced in cells and cellular components by radiation. The research in this area was pursued and it was found that caffeine (1,3,7-trimethylxanthine), a major component of one of the most popular beverages coffee, protects mice against the lethal doses of g-radiation and if successfully extrapolated to humans, could protect people against the ravages of radiation.

Whole Body Hyperthermia induced radioprotection of Swiss mice

Studies were carried out to assess the efficacy of whole body hyperthermia (WBH) as a potential radioprotector against total body irradiation (TBI) with lethal and sublethal doses of ionizing radiation.

Radiation Medicine Centre (RMC)

RMC continued research and development in nuclear medicine which included in-house development of radiopharmaceuticals, RIA technology for thyroid hormones and tubercular antigen and antibodies. Patient services for diagnosis and treatment is an ongoing activity.

In-vitro Nuclear Medicine Services

Thyroid function studies form a major part of the in-vitro nuclear medicine services. Various investigations were done for the management of thyroid disorders at Radiation Medicine Centre (RMC). These include serum thyroxine, TSH, Triiodothyronin, free hormones and Thyroglobulin. About 2200 serum samples and 6500 investigations were done during every quarter.

Other In-vitro studies

Investigations to assist in the diagnosis of tuberculosis which include RIA for antigen and antibody to M.tuberculosis in human serum and other fluids were carried out. The development of assays and preparation of all the reagents was done in-house. The detection of anti-thyroglobulin and anti-microsomal antibodies in the patients of thyroid disorders who attend RMC for diagnosis and treatment was also carried out.

Immunological Techniques in the rapid diagnosis of tuberculosis

Detection of antigen and or antibody of M. tuberculosis has received considerable attention over the last few decades. Use of crude antigen and detection of antibody alone has not been very useful. Using the technique of RIA we have shown that the detection of antigen as well as antibody is necessary to get a better assessment of the disease. Recently we have developed an RIA for antibody detection, which is quite promising in diagnosis.

Engineering Services

Detailed engineering, design, planning, procurement, execution and commissioning of electrical, telecom cabling network, air-conditioning, ventilation and other mechanical services were carried out for the new upcoming projects at Trombay and at other places which were taken up during the IX five year plan. Major projects in progress, include clean rooms at MASCOT, Potato/Onion Irradiator Project at Nashik, Electron Beam Centre at Kharghar, PRAFPUL, Advanced Computer Centre and New Hot Cell Facility for Post Irradiation of Examination Project at BARC Trombay.

Augmentation and upgradation of electrical and mechanical utilities of BARC was taken up under IX Plan proposal to upgrade the network of utility services for BARC Complex in order to ensure complete support to R&D activities in terms of availability of reliable service back up. The major works included in the 9^th plan are to provide centrifugal water chilling machine working with environment friendly refrigerant along with upgradation and augmentation of power supply system at Central Air-conditioning Plant, 100KV and 22KV Sub-Stations and other utilities like water supply network, fire hydrant system and other services.

Technical Services Division also continued with its energy conservation programme by way of considerable power factor improvement, energy efficient illumination systems, optimal operation of refrigeration machines and sub-station equipment in order to effectively integrate consumption with demand. This effort has yielded considerable power savings over the past few years. Use of energy efficient equipment along with optimum operation to meet the demand pattern were the main motto of energy conservation programme. Upgradation of system with effective servicing and preventive maintenance of the equipment/machines were carried out to provide energy efficient performance of air-conditioning system, service water, steam supply & other utility systems. Performance of gravity feed water supply system was satisfactory resulting in considerable energy savings.

Technical Services Division had been responsible for some turnkey projects related to Clean Room Systems developed for BARC/DAE in the recent past. After successful commissioning of special metal free class 1000 Clean Room facility at CCCM, Hyderabad, another twin clean room facility was taken up at MASCOT, Trombay which is physically completed and is under testing/commissioning at present. On the basis of expertise gained from these special type of clean rooms, we have now been entrusted with some prestigious overseas clean room projects through IAEA. Also we were invited to provide expertise for the new clean room projects at RMC Parel(Medical Cyclotron/PET Facility), Bio Safety Clean Room at RLG, Trombay, Clean Room for RPL, BRIT, Vashi etc.

International Relation

BARC conducts about 30 training programs in the field of nuclear sciences for academicians and industrial workers. Scientists and engineers from abroad under bilateral agreements and those nominated by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) are also utilizing these training facilities. To further strengthen the co-operation in the fields of nuclear applications in health, industry and agriculture, radiation protection, nuclear safety, nuclear power, and regulatory matters a Memorandum of Understanding was reached between DAE and IAEA (Within the framework of IAEA’s Technical Co-operation (TC) programme) relating to the implementation of the IAEAs regional and inter-regional training events. DAE will act as the national coordinator for hosting regional and inter-regional training events at its centres such as BARC and those of other organizations. Active part was taken in the various activities of RCA/IAEA and this year’s RCA National Representatives Meeting was hosted by India.

Landscape & Cosmetic Maintenance

Landscape & Cosmetic Maintenance Section is responsible for planning, development and maintenance of gardens for creating a clean and aesthetically pleasant environment in this Centre. During the year, approximately 5,000 sq.m. areas around various offices, laboratories and residential buildings at Trombay and in Mumbai City were landscaped. Landscaping was also done at ‘POTON’ Project at Lasalgaon, (Maharashtra State) and NRL GOALS at Mount Abu (Rajasthan). Approximately 40 new species of plants of horticultural importance for enhancing Trombay Flora were introduced. Afforestation on Trombay Hills was carried out by planting about 40,000 saplings of assorted tree species which were raised in BARC Nursery.

Transfer of Technology & Collaborations

BARC transfers technologies and encourages national and international collaborations. This Centre also provides consultancy services based on expertise developed &sells hi-tech products made in BARC.

Many technologies were transferred as shown in the following Table. Some hi-tech products supplied were the following:

Within the Country

Products such as ANUPAM software, Al-Be master alloy, Glass-to-Metal seals and 16-node ANUPAM-P-III system have been supplied.

Exports

Some of the products exported include RIA-kit components for estimation of micro-albumin-urea to Indonesia, and laboratory equipment such as Gas Chromatograph, Atomic Absorption Spectrometer, Gamma-ray Spectrometer, radioactive sources and monitors to set up a Nuclear Training Centre, at Dalat, to Vietnam Atomic Energy Commission.

Consultancy, Training Programmes & Accreditation

Gamma scanning of process equipment of various types for petrochemical industries; Reconditioning of electrode assemblies of TSIPs for Heavy Water Plant; Radiotracer experiments for Kandla Port, Kandla; Isotope pig tracking of 10" pipeline for HPCL, Mumbai; Radiotracer experiments in Pilot scale trickle bed reactors for EIL, Gurgaon; Strain measurement of Khopoli Renovation Project for Tata Electric Company Ltd., Mumbai; Consultancy for building laser cutting system for Interface Design Associates Pvt. Ltd., Vashi, Navi Mumbai; Electroless nickel coating for coated metal optics for Astor Optical Industries, Mumbai, and Training Progra-mmes on Radiation Safety Aspects of Nucleonic Gauges for Tamilnadu Petroproducts Ltd., Chennai; Instrumentation Analysis of Minerals for Petrography and Mineral Chemistry Lab, Gandhinagar & Radiation Safety for Medical Radiology Students of Garware Institute of Career Education and Development, University of Mumbai.

Collaborations

A total of 9 MoUs related to Technical Consultancy, Technical Collaboration and Academic Collaboration were signed, as follows :

Technical Consultancy

• Central Institute of Fisheries Education, Versova, Mumbai for use of radiation & radioisotopes for improving the quality of fishery products.
• Central Institute of Fresh Water Aquaculture, Kausalyaganga, Bhuban-eshware for the use of radiation in aquaculture for improving the quality of fresh water fish/shell fish.
• GSFC Science Foundation for use of radiation and plant tissue culture technique for the improvement of banana.

• M/s Shanta Biotecnics Pvt. Ltd collaboration for development of Plant based Edible Vaccines.
• NPCIL, Mumbai for development of Robotic Devices and Robotics for TAPS.
• M/s Gujarat Positra Port Infrastructure Ltd., Positra, Gujarat for tec-hnical consultancy for setting up of a 60 million litre per day desalination plant.

• SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai collaboration to promote post-graduate and Ph.D programmes in Computer Science and Technology, Electronics and Telecommunications and Information Technology disciplines.
• Dr Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola collaboration in the use of radiation and radioisotopes in agriculture, veterinary science and seed production.
• University of Pune, Pune, collaboration for sponsoring doctoral fellowship programme for research in chemical, physical and life sciences. The MoU was signed by Director, BARC.

Patents registered