Next Generation Accelerated Characterisation Technologies (EXACT)

Lead Research Organisation: University of Southampton
Department Name: Sch of Ocean and Earth Science

Abstract

Effective radioactive waste management is critically dependent on robust, focussed and efficient waste characterisation in order to reliably inform all management steps (including waste recovery, treatment / recycling, conditioning, storage, waste disposal) and the safety of the operators, the general public and the environment. The proposed NNUF-EXACT laboratory will be a world-leading radiochemistry facility enabling research and training in accelerated nuclear characterisation technologies underpinning civil (and Defence, where this overlaps with EPSRC remit) nuclear programmes, nuclear forensics, decommissioning and site clean-up, and nuclear new build. EXACT will provide an easily accessible state-of-the-art test-bed facility and supporting infrastructure for research, technology development (and validation), and training in in-situ, on-site and off-site characterisation methods, including for complex / problem waste streams.

Planned Impact

NNUF-EXACT is a critical enabling facility for diverse, high importance research applications that align with EPSRC priorities, themes and strategies in Nuclear Fission, and a range of related research themes and areas in energy, engineering, and manufacturing the future. The Facility will benefit academic researchers and existing EPSRC nuclear research consortia, the nuclear industry and its supply chain, and the general public - research enabled by this facility will address key societal challenges in relation to productive and resilient nation outcomes, through the development of next generation technologies and by ensuring effective and affordable solutions for nuclear waste treatment.
The majority of the societal, commercial or other impact from NNUF-EXACT will be realised (a) through a wide range of research enabled by the Facility, and (b) provision of advanced radiochemical and analytical training. As well as directly underpinning research and skills and technology development in the Nuclear Fission EPSRC research area, the proposed facility will offer a timely and extended solution for the wider EPSRC community, by providing a flexible low-level radiochemistry test-bed capability to the broader EPRSC research and industry communities, permitting evaluation and validation of emerging technologies and characterisation systems using nuclear-relevant materials, and promoting flow of skills and technologies between non-nuclear and nuclear research and sectors. The combination of a state-of-the-art and flexible radiochemistry facility, associated instrumentation and expertise will provide a unique training environment supporting the maintenance of skill sets associated with nuclear characterisation, and decommissioning and nuclear new-build, supporting the academic nuclear research base and enhancing the SQEP (Suitably Qualified and Experienced Personnel) community of Characterisation specialists in the nuclear industry, which is identified as a key risk to the Industry's decommissioning programmes in the near future. The provision of a world-leading training facility for characterisation will enable ongoing training of skilled practitioners and maintain the UK lead in characterisation, supporting decommissioning, waste characterisation and nuclear power production in a critical period for the UK nuclear sector and nuclear skills base.
 
Description The funding received form this award has enabled formation of the NNUF-EXACT facility at the University of Southampton. The facility is now able to provide a dedicated research and development space for working with radioactive materials in the fields of nuclear characterisation and remediation, particularly validation of new characterisation and measurement methodologies and sensor testing. The facility includes all of the necessary operational infrastructure to support this work for users who have no previous experience in working with active materials. The facility also provides access to a comprehensive array of analytical capability, via both new facility equipment funded by this award (e.g. Automated gamma analysis and surface area analysis) and via collaborations formed with a number of 'supporting facilities' both within the University of Southampton University of Bristol.
Exploitation Route The facility will continue to operate as part of the NNUF but supported by the host organisation (University of Southampton) in partnership with the enterprise unit GAU-Radioanalytical. Access to the facility by academic users and users from industry (both national and international) will continue via 'direct application' to use the facility (access costed by project).
Sectors Aerospace

Defence and Marine

Energy

Environment

 
Description EPSRC Core Equipment at Southampton 2020
Amount £704,499 (GBP)
Funding ID EP/V035975/1 
Organisation Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 11/2020 
End 05/2022
 
Description Chernobyl Exclusion Zone biota sample characterisation 
Organisation British Geological Survey
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution Characterisation of biota samples originating from the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Chemical and radiological analysis of samples via a range of techniques including gamma spectrometry, XRF, laser ablation ICP-MS and autoradiography.
Collaborator Contribution Provision of biota samples for characterisation (University of Bristol). Provision of autoradiography analysis (BGS)
Impact Outputs are pending. It is expected that a publication will be produced in collaboration with the University of Bristol. The primary outcomes of the study will be to better understand the distribution of key radionuclides in biota samples from the exclusion zone and their potential for remobilisation during forest fire events.
Start Year 2021
 
Description Chernobyl Exclusion Zone biota sample characterisation 
Organisation University of Bristol
Department Interface Analysis Centre (IAC)
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution Characterisation of biota samples originating from the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone. Chemical and radiological analysis of samples via a range of techniques including gamma spectrometry, XRF, laser ablation ICP-MS and autoradiography.
Collaborator Contribution Provision of biota samples for characterisation (University of Bristol). Provision of autoradiography analysis (BGS)
Impact Outputs are pending. It is expected that a publication will be produced in collaboration with the University of Bristol. The primary outcomes of the study will be to better understand the distribution of key radionuclides in biota samples from the exclusion zone and their potential for remobilisation during forest fire events.
Start Year 2021
 
Description Enhanced migration of radionuclides through cementitious nuclear site materials 
Organisation British Geological Survey
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution The NNUF-EXACT Facility provides space, materials and equipment for production of test samples and also subsequent radiochemical analysis of subsamples in order to assess radionuclide migration.
Collaborator Contribution Project collaborates with the School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds bringing expertise in geochemical-electrochemical modelling using PHREEQC and related software.
Impact No outputs at this stage. Laboratory based electrokinetic testing complete, data evaluation and processing in progress. It is expected that the primary output will be a peer reviewed paper on the impact of electrochemical remediation on concrete matrices. This is also expected to form part of a PhD thesis for one of the researchers. The collaboration is multi-disciplinary - the project PI from the University of Leeds is based in Environmental Geochemistry.
Start Year 2021
 
Description Enhanced migration of radionuclides through cementitious nuclear site materials 
Organisation University of Leeds
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution The NNUF-EXACT Facility provides space, materials and equipment for production of test samples and also subsequent radiochemical analysis of subsamples in order to assess radionuclide migration.
Collaborator Contribution Project collaborates with the School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds bringing expertise in geochemical-electrochemical modelling using PHREEQC and related software.
Impact No outputs at this stage. Laboratory based electrokinetic testing complete, data evaluation and processing in progress. It is expected that the primary output will be a peer reviewed paper on the impact of electrochemical remediation on concrete matrices. This is also expected to form part of a PhD thesis for one of the researchers. The collaboration is multi-disciplinary - the project PI from the University of Leeds is based in Environmental Geochemistry.
Start Year 2021
 
Description Evaluation of Microfluidic radiation sensors 
Organisation University of York
Department Department of Physics
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution NNUF-EXACT provided a dedicated laboratory environment for testing of the partners novel radiation sensors. EXACT staff also provided expertise and support for handing of open source radioactive materials alongside providing the tracer solutions for testing.
Collaborator Contribution University of York developed the novel radiation sensors to be tested but were not able to work with open sources in their own facility.
Impact None as yet although publication is expected in the future. The initial access has also led to us being included in further grant funding applications, two of which have been successful therefore further access is expected in the future.
Start Year 2023
 
Description Microfluidic Uranium separation and integration with online ICP-MS analysis 
Organisation University of Manchester
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution The NNUF EXACT facility is supporting the testing and evaluation of a microfluidic based separation approach with on-line analysis by ICP-MS. EXACT is providing access to a dedicated triple quadrupole ICP-MS instrument (via the GAU-Radioanalytical supporting facility) and operator support to enable evaluation of the feasibility of coupling a real-time microfluidic separation device for isolation of uranium from solution with an ICP-MS analysis capability. The partner is also working closely with University of Southampton researchers who are also working on microfluidic analysis techniques. EXACT are also assisting with the provision of matrix relevant test samples for evaluation of the system once operational.
Collaborator Contribution The PI and lead researcher from the UoM have developed the microfluidic based system for on-line separation using reduced reagent volumes. They have considerable expertise in the research and development of such systems.
Impact No outputs as yet. It is expected that this project will contribute a significant body of work to the lead researchers doctoral thesis and also result in submission of a peer reviewed journal article.
Start Year 2022
 
Description Off-gas emissions of caesium, chlorine and iodine from simulated intermediate level radioactive waste glasses at temperatures up to 950°C 
Organisation Sheffield Hallam University
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution Use of a Raddec Pyrolyser-trio tube furnace system for heating experiments utilising simulated glass waste samples, doped with Cs and Iodine. Evaluation of resulting off-gas release via stable and radiometric characterisation techniques (i.e. using HPGe gamma spectrometry and ICP-MS instruments).
Collaborator Contribution Provision of test glass waste samples containing different chemical additives to enable assessment of radionuclide retention under melt conditions (i.e. expertise in glass-forming waste materials).
Impact It is expected that the primary outcomes will be e better understanding of the effect of waste glass additives on radionuclide retention thus informing wider scale use in radioactive waste vitrification processes. It is expected that the research will form a significant part of one of the researchers PhD thesis and will also lead to a peer reviewed publication. The collaboration is multi-disciplinary, the PI and primary research working in the field glasses and ceramics from the department of engineering and mathmatics.
Start Year 2022
 
Description Provision of industry focused CPD training 
Organisation Atomic Weapons Establishment
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Private 
PI Contribution NNUF-EXACT staff prepared and hosted four one day CPD training workshops for scientists from the AWE. The workshops aimed to provide focused overviews of two radiometric techniques, Alpha Spectrometry and Liquid Scintillation Counting.
Collaborator Contribution AWE scientists attended the courses at EXACT.
Impact The collaboration resulted in the successful delivery of 4 CPD courses to industry. The courses received positive feedback from attendees and organisers.
Start Year 2022
 
Description RADIA (Developing NNUF Capabilities in Radionuclide Diffusion/Advection Experiments) 
Organisation University of Manchester
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution EXACT has contributed to understanding around meso-scale flow through environments for radionuclide transport in sub-surface environments. This has been achieved through the use of off-the-shelf permeability cells and automated flow-through sample collection. EXACT has also assisted with the study of natural uranium reduction environments as analogues for nuclear waste encapsulation. Reduction samples have been imaged (autoradiography - via UoM) and subsamples prior to XAS analysis as DLS. EXACt has also completed two collaborative research meetings to discuss potential collaborations, including knowledge exchange
Collaborator Contribution NNUF-RADER have supported EXACT in the provision and analysis of the autoradiography plates for analysis of the uranium reduction samples. RADER are also completing the XAS analysis of samples of the reduction material provided by EXACT at the DLS. Note that RADER are also completing a suite of complementary research as part of the RADIA project.
Impact No impacts as yet however publication of various aspects of the research completed under RADIA is expected in due course.
Start Year 2023
 
Description Remote detection and analysis of radioactive contamination during land remediation using innovative algorithms 
Organisation National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (NASU)
Country Ukraine 
Sector Public 
PI Contribution Provision of active sources for evaluation of system performance in easily-accessible project space. EXACT also hosted video-linked meetings to allow for remote guidance by the team in Ukraine. Expertise in gamma spectrometry enabled technology validation using conventional gamma spectrometry provided by GAU-Radioanalytical to benchmark data acquired.
Collaborator Contribution The project team set up a series of experimental trials to evaluate the application of a novel portable detector and signal processing system (developed by NASU) as a tool to remotely detect and analyse radioactive contamination during land remediation at the Sellafield site. This system was originally developed to monitor radioactivity in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone and has undergone field trials in Ukraine. The lab-based trials undertaken in the EXACT facility aimed to test the ability of the innovative signal processing algorithms in detecting and discriminating multiple sources of radiation under differing levels of attenuation. These experiments were designed to simulate complex sub-surface contamination plumes and objects that are difficult to quantify using traditional detection methods.
Impact The primary output is a technical report as part of the Sellafield Gamechangers project on the performance of the new detector/signal processing technology with the aim of assessing its applicability for deployment on-site.
Start Year 2022
 
Description 25th International Conference on Advances in Liquid Scintillation Spectrometry (LSC2024) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact EXACT and GAU-Radioanalytical, UoS are hosting the 25th instalment of this international conference on liquid scintillation spectrometry which has been running since 1957. The conference is the largest event that we have organised as a group and will provide an opportunity to welcome a diverse audience of researchers from academia and industry who work across various related sectors (nuclear, medicine, physics) and promote the EXACT facility capability. Three calls for attendance have been issued to date and have already provided exposure for NNUF-EXACT and UoS. To be held 15-17.04.24
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2024
 
Description 9th International Organically Bound Tritium Working Group Meeting, Antwerp 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact EXACT exhibited at the 9th International Organically Bound Tritium Working Group Meeting, Antwerp. This event provided EXACT with an opportunity for cross-field networking with researchers working in the field of OBT. The workshop was hosted by SCK-CEN (Belgian Nuclear Research Centre) and included discussions around characterisation and CRM development for industry which EXACT might contribute to. Held 10-11.05.23
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description AIWG Meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact A presentation on the NNUF-EXACT Facility was given at a meeting of the Analysts Informal Working Group. Membership of this working group covers most key laboratories within the nuclear sector and the presentation provided an opportunity to promote the capability of the facility in relation to development and validation of characterisation capability. Meeting held 03.11.21.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description ATLANTIC Annual Meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact A presentation was given at the annual meeting for the Accident Tolerant Fuels in Recycling consortium to update the members on the progress and capability of the facility and built on links established via the project PI and members of the steering committee. Meeting held 11.01.22
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description AWE EXACT Introduction 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Dedicated NNUF-EXACT Introduction/overview presentation to various representatives of AWE plc. Ten attendees from AWE including Actinides Analysis, Nuclear Verification, Forensics and Environmental monitoring Teams. Q&A session held with a good level of interest experienced from attendees. Presented on 02.08.21.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description AWE collaboration meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact A meeting was held with representatives of AWE plc to discuss possible areas of collaboration around nuclear forensics, automation and radioanalytical method development. There may also be the opportunity to collaborate regarding training associated with the Actinide Resilience Capability (ARC) programme. Meeting held on 03.06.21
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Birchwood Nuclear Science, Engineering, Technology and Innovation exhibition 2022. 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact EXACT exhibited at the Birchwood Nuclear Science, Engineering, Technology and Innovation exhibition. This event provided EXACT with an opportunity for cross-industry networking and advertisement of capability. Discussions held with a number of visitors resulted in further communication regarding facility capability and usage. Held 21.09.22
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.nuclearexhibitions.com/BirchwoodEvent/
 
Description Birchwood Nuclear Science, Engineering, Technology and Innovation exhibition 2023. 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact EXACT exhibited at the Birchwood Nuclear Science, Engineering, Technology and Innovation exhibition. This event provided EXACT with an opportunity for cross-industry networking and advertisement of capability. Discussions held with a number of visitors resulted in further communication regarding facility capability and usage. Interest also highlighted for the forthcoming International Conference on Advances in Liquid Scintillation Spectrometry, being hosted by EXACT / UoS in April 2024. Held 19.09.23
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://www.nuclearexhibitions.com/BirchwoodEvent/
 
Description Carbon 2022 conference 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Carbon 2022 Conference. Project Co-I presented at the international Carbon 2022 conference in a special session on reactor graphite. Held 05.07.22
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description EXACT Industry Engagement Event 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact NNUF-EXACT hosted its first Industry Engagement Event on 20th May 2021. The event was hosted using Eventbright and received over 40 registrations from industry and other nuclear sector stakeholders (e.g. NDA). The event gave an overview of the facility, its aims, objectives and opportunities for industry (i.e. how EXACT might help them). Recordings of the talks will be made available for on-demand viewing on the EXACT webpages.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description EXACT/RADER/PLEIADES workshop on radioactive waste remediation and disposal. 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact NNUF EXACT/RADER/PLEIADES/HADES workshop on radioactive waste remediation and disposal. Aim of this workshop was to provide a focused introduction to the NNUF facilities and how they can assist researchers with access to equipment and expertise. The event was held in a hybrid format, with in-person attendance at the three facility locations. Held 28.09.22
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/nnuf-exact-pleiadeshades-rader-workshop-wednesday-16th-november-2022-...
 
Description Environment Agency Electrokinetic Remediation Workshop 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Policymakers/politicians
Results and Impact NNUF-EXACT was introduced at a workshop hosted by the EA to discuss electrokinetic remediation technologies on 03.06.21. A range of government body representatives and industry/academic organisations were present.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Hosting of specialist Alpha Spectrometry training course 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact EXACT hosted a specialist one-week alpha spectrometry users course on behalf of an industry partner (ORTEC/AMETEK). The course comprised of both classroom and laboratory based practical's led by AMETEK staff but with assistance from EXACT staff. Hosting of the workshop allowed EXACT to showcase its facilities and capability to an international audience and build a relationship with a key nuclear industry supplier of analytical equipment. Held 21-25.08.23
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description Institute of Physics - Nuclear Physics Conference, York 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact EXACT exhibited at the Institute of Physics - Nuclear Physics conference. This event provided EXACT with an opportunity for cross-field networking and advertisement of capability (this is the first IOP event that we have attended). Discussions held with a number of potential users (one proceeded to use the facility). Held 04-06.04.23
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://www.iop.org/events/uk-nuclear-physics-conference-2023
 
Description Korean Institute of Nuclear Safety workshop 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Introductory presentation on the NNUF-EXACT Facility. Structure, Aims, Objectives. The event was attended by various representatives from the KINS alongside other Korean organisations in the nuclear sector. The talk served to promote and raise awareness of the EXACT facility Internationally. The PI has a track record for successful research with academics from various organisations in South Korea and it is hope that this presentation may encourage future collaborations utilising the EXACT facility.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2019
 
Description NDA Supply Chain event 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact NDA Supply chain event, Telford. NNUF EXACT exhibited at the Nuclear Decommissioning Authorities annual supply chain event in Telford. As this is a significant opportunity to advertise facility capability within the nuclear sector, the primary objective was to raise awareness of the facility across all of the nuclear supply chain. This was achieved through networking and discussion with numerous visitors and other exhibitors. Held 21.07.2022
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.gov.uk/government/news/nda-announces-new-date-for-its-group-supply-chain-event-2022
 
Description NIRAB Publication 'The UK Civil Nuclear R&D Landscape Survey' 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Policymakers/politicians
Results and Impact Inclusion in NIRAB publication "The UK Civil Nuclear R&D Landscape Survey" under details of selected Government funded research facilities. This publication is now available on the NIRAB website and can be downloaded as a .pdf document. The publication will assist in raising the awareness of EXACT as a research facility to the wider nuclear sector.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
URL https://www.nirab.org.uk/application/files/3615/9160/6143/The_UK_Civil_Nuclear_RD_Landscape_Survey_A...
 
Description NIRO UK Fission R&D Catalogue Submission 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Policymakers/politicians
Results and Impact NNUF-EXACT prepared a submission to the Nuclear Innovation and Research Office for their 'UK Fission R&D Catalogue' which aims to document all facilities that could be used for Fission R&D based on a NIRAB recommendation. The submission includes details of the facility space, equipment, supporting facilities, and activity limits for active operations. As this publication is yet to be released the outcome/impact is not yet known.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description NNUF EXACT Newsletter January 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Fifth NNUF-EXACT Newsletter distributed via EXACT mailing list. Provided an operational and training update, supporting facility case study and user case study. The newsletter was also circulated within the university. Published 04.01.23
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://sway.office.com/1oDDBHKtTov32c44?ref=Link
 
Description NNUF EXACT Newsletter September 2023 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Sixth NNUF-EXACT Newsletter distributed via EXACT mailing list. Provided an operational and training update, supporting facility case study and user case study. The newsletter was also circulated within the university. Published 08.09.23
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://sway.cloud.microsoft/WnHrJBWKLmwXFcvp?ref=email
 
Description NNUF Symposium 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact An overview of the EXACT Facility was presented as part of a symposium attended by all of the NNUF facilities. The symposium gave an opportunity for potential areas of collaboration to be identified with other facilities and raise awareness of each facilities capability and progress. A number of possible collaborations for EXACT were identified. Meeting held 13.01.22.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description NNUF-EXACT Horizon Scanning Questionnaire 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact NNUF-EXACT Horizon Scanning Questionnaire released. The primary aims of the questionnaire are to gain insights in to the current challenges and research being conducted in the fields of nuclear characterisation, monitoring and remediation. Also to understand future challenges and research focus for the EXACT facility. Participant responses to date have provided valuable insights in to sector challenges from industry, academia and government organisations and provided an indication of key objectives for future research. The questionnaire has also provided guidance on training requirements within the sector.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description NNUF-EXACT LinkedIn Live 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact NNUF-EXACT LinkedIn account launched to increase presence of EXACT on social media. The profile offers the opportunity to interact with other nuclear and non-nuclear sector organisations on LinkedIn. The profile also provides a wide reach for progress updates and promotion of events at the EXACT facility. Followers have been boosted through links with partner organisations (such as the South West Nuclear Hub & GAU-Radioanalytical) who are well established on LinkedIn.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
URL https://www.linkedin.com/company/42734035/admin/
 
Description NNUF-EXACT Newsletter 1 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Distribution of EXACT Newsletter 1 to key industry and academic contacts. Provided update on Commissioning, Equipment, Outreach and Questionnaire plus links to the NNUF-EXACT website and LinkedIn account. The newsletter raised awareness of EXACT with the recipients but cascading has also increased awareness more broadly within recipients host organisations and partners.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description NNUF-EXACT Newsletter 2 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Distribution of EXACT Newsletter 2. Provides an update on facility commissioning (including opening date), equipment and supporting facilities, outreach including Twitter/LinkedIn, access procedures and a link to the EXACT mailing list subscribe page. The later provides a useful indication of the level of interest in the facility and also provides an efficient tool for the distribution of future updates and newsletters.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description NNUF-EXACT Newsletter 3 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Third NNUF-EXACT Newsletter distributed via EXACT mailing list. Provided update on commissioning / opening, supporting facility focus, project case study (potential) and news and events. Published 09.08.21
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description NNUF-EXACT Newsletter 4 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Fourth NNUF-EXACT Newsletter distributed via EXACT mailing list. Provided an opperational update, supporting facility case study (UoS Geochemistry research group) and user case study (Evaluating the radionuclide composition, distribution and speciation within Chernobyl Red Forest environmental material to better underpin mobility and fire release
dynamics). Published April 22.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://sway.office.com/yUkOOgQq3qlaMvWj?ref=Link&loc=play
 
Description NNUF-EXACT Twitter Live 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact NNUF-EXACT Twitter account launched. Feed included on Southampton hosted webpages. The profile offers the opportunity to interact with other nuclear and non-nuclear sector organisations and also individuals. The profile also provides a wide reach for progress updates and promotion of events at the EXACT facility. Followers have been boosted through links with partner organisations (such as the South West Nuclear Hub) who are well established on Twitter.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
URL https://twitter.com/NNUF_EXACT/
 
Description NNUF-EXACT Website update 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Following the initial 6-months of operation significant updates to the EXACT website were published. The updates added further information to the site in relation to capability and also simplified navigation for visitors. Live December 2021.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description NWDRF CWG meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact The Nuclear Waste and Decommissioning Research Forum is a cross industry group that aims to enhance coordination of R&D and technical programmes across UK NDA sites. It represents a key component of NDA research related activities and the presentation provided an opportunity to update the forum on the potential of the EXACT Facility to support related R&D. The meeting also promoted significant discussion around EXACT training and content. Meeting held 22.11.21
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description NWS Integrated Waste Management Programme: Characterisation working Group meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact NNUF FM presented to the NWS Integrated Waste Management Programme: Characterisation working Group on EXACT's capability to support R&D in this area and also plans to complete a Problematic Waste Review paper. Links made with group members and draft structure of the review discussed. 16.03.23
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description National Physical Laboratory Conference on Applied Radiation Metrology 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact The National Physical Laboratory Conference on Applied Radiation and Metrology was held over 3 days in January 2020 and covers recent developments in the fields of radionuclide measurement, waste characterisation, decommissioning, nuclear medicine and quality control. An introductory presentation on the NNUF-EXACT facility was given, including: Structure, Aims, Objectives and Facilities. The presentation served to increase awareness of the NNUF and NNUF-EXACT project amongst attendees and stimulate discussion on potential projects / research.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description National Physical Laboratory virtual Conference on Applied Radiation Metrology 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact EXACT gave an update on facility operations and ongoing projects at the annual NPL Conference on Applied Radiation Metrology, specifically within the characterisation theme. This followed on from the dedicated session hosted by EXACT at last years meeting. This provided the opportunity for attendees to gain a better understanding of the types of projects being conducted at the facility and highlight opportunities for future work. Meeting held 26.11.2021.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Nuclear Decommissioning Authority Meeting on PhD bursaries 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Details of NNUF-EXACT included in a presentation by Ben Russell from NPL (EXACT Partner organisation) regarding teaching opportunities at NPL. The talk served to raise awareness of the intention for EXACT to offer nuclear sector training in partnership with NPL, and give an indication of the types of training which may be offered.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description One day industry training programmes 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact EXACT hosted a two-day training workshop for Industry on Radioanalytical chemistry as part of ongoing CPD. The course was delivered as part of a portfolio of CPD training options offered by EXACT and covered introductions to sample preparation, radiometric detection, measurement uncertainties and QA. Such CPD courses provide a good opportunity for EXACT staff to showcase the knowledge and expertise of staff amongst industry users. As the course was in-person at the NOC it was also possible to show attendees around the laboratory facilities to further highlight capability. Held 26-27.02.24
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2024
 
Description One day industry training programmes 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact In November and December 2022 EXACT hosted 4 one-day focused workshops for Industry on Alpha spectrometry and Liquid Scintillation Counting as part of ongoing CPD. Not only are these part of a broader CPD training package offered by EXACT but also provide an opportunity for a facility overview and capability showcase.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description One day industry training programmes 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact EXACT hosted a two-day training workshop for Industry on Radioanalytical chemistry as part of ongoing CPD. The course was delivered as part of a portfolio of CPD training options offered by EXACT and covered introductions to sample preparation, radiometric detection, measurement uncertainties and QA. Such CPD courses provide a good opportunity for EXACT staff to showcase the knowledge and expertise of staff amongst industry users. Held 01-02.08.23
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description RSC Environmental Radioactivity and Radiochemical Analysis 14 conference 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact EXACT exhibited at the RSC Radiochemistry Groups ERA14 conference (held on a three-yearly basis) in York. The conference provided an opportunity to network with both national and international attendees across academia and industry. A talk was also given by one of the UoS facility users. Held 12-15.09.22
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.rsc.org/events/detail/46636/14th-international-symposium-on-nuclear-and-environmental-ra...
 
Description RWM PW CoP forum 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact An overview of the NNUF Facility and its remit was presented to the RWM Problematic Waste CoP Forum. This forum is attended by representatives from across nuclear industry with the aim of sharing best practice and lessons learned in relation to problematic wastes and how to manage these. A summary of how the EXACT Facility can assist in key areas relating to problematic waste challenges such as validation of new characterisation approaches was given and helped to raise the awareness of the EXACT Facility amongst key problematic waste stakeholders. Presentation given on 29.09.21.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description RWM RSO Annual Conference 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact A poster on the NNUF EXACT Facility and its capability was presented at the Radioactive Waste Management Research Support Office annual conference in Manchester. One of the aims of this event was to provide a summary of facilities within the UK able to support research activities associated with radioactive waste disposal. The event provided a face-to-face opportunity for networking and discussion relating to capability and access to the facility. Event from 15-16.09.21.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Release and promotion of Rad ratings cards 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Schools
Results and Impact Rad ratings cards sponsored. 400 packs produced. These were trialled in schools and promoted on Twitter from 26.10.22
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://uni4me.co.uk/activities/rad-ratings-card-game-resources/
 
Description RemPlex Seminar and Round-table workshop 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Invited presentation and round table panel participation, on remediation methods for radiocesium and radiostrontium, RemPlex seminar, Pacific Northwest Nuclear Laboratories (online), USA, February 14 2023. Presentation title: Novel electrokinetic methods for radiocesium and radiostrontium management at nuclear sites - the UK TRANSCEND project.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
URL https://www.pnnl.gov/projects/remplex/seminars
 
Description Research collaboration meeting, University of Manchester (RADIA project) 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact EXACT staff attended a research meeting hosted by colleagues at the University of Manchester as part of the NNUF Large Grant Award (RADIA - joint award between UoS and UoM). This provided the opportunity to discuss planned work under the award but also to explore future opportunities for work with NNUF RADER. This includes organising further joint workshops (as per Sept 2022) and also wider research opportunities e.g. SURRI. Held 07-08.12.23
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description SURRI Workshop, TUL, Czech Republic 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact EXACT FM and Co-I participated in a research workshop as part of the EU funded SURRI (Sustainable Remediation of Radionuclide Impacts on Land and Critical Materials Recovery) project, hosted by the Technical University of Liberec. This provided an opportunity to discuss collaborative projects and also visit various industrial sites for potential remediation in the Czech Republic. A number of projects have commenced with SURRI partners since this meeting. Held 27-29.06.23
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description SWNH Board meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact NNUF-EXACT is a member of the South West Nuclear Hub and this provides a key route for promotion and collaboration (both with other 'Hub' members and farther afield). Board meetings are held twice a year and provide an opportunity to update members on developments and progress - in particular facility capability and usage. The meeting highlighted further areas for future collaboration and facility access proposals. Meeting held 21.09.21.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Sellafield Game Changers news article 
Form Of Engagement Activity A press release, press conference or response to a media enquiry/interview
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact Following successful facility access (user - ANAMAD Ltd) for testing of a new gamma detector and processing software funded by the Sellafield Gamechangers programme, a news article was published on the Gamechangers website highlighting the key achievements of the project and partners. Released 22.09.22
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://www.gamechangers.technology/news/Team_defies_danger_for_Game_Changers_project
 
Description South West Nuclear Hub Board Meeting 2022 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact NNUF EXACT hosted the annual membership board meeting for the SWNH, one of our project partners. The meeting provided an opportunity to showcase the facility (and supporting facilities) to the various 'hub' members including nuclear industry (e.g. EDF, Magnox, Jacobs etc.) and academic members (UKAEA). Held 17.11.22
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
URL https://southwestnuclearhub.ac.uk/membership/
 
Description South West Nuclear Hub February Newsletter 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact NNUF-EXACT featured in the South West Nuclear Hubs February newsletter. Includes an introductory article and more information on how to apply (including link to webpage and questionnaire). Enabled wider promotion of the facility amongst the more established SWNH email distribution contacts.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description South West Nuclear Hub March Newsletter 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact NNUF-EXACT featured in the South West Nuclear Hub March newsletter. Listed under NNUF with full facility name and logo (including link to webpage). Enabled wider promotion amongst the more established SWNH email distribution contacts.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Southampton University hosted webpage live 
Form Of Engagement Activity Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Launch of the Southampton University hosted NNUF-EXACT website. Includes aims, objectives, facilities and equipment information, access and application information and news/events. Includes links to EXACT Twitter and LinkedIn feeds and headline announcements regarding access calls via the NNUF funded access scheme.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
URL https://www.southampton.ac.uk/nnuf-exact
 
Description TRANSCEND Annual Meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Postgraduate students
Results and Impact TRANSCEND annual meeting with presentations highlighting projects hosted by EXACT including volatile radionuclides in glass wastes and electrokinetic remediation of cementitious materials. Held 01-02.11.22
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description UK SMR Programme Meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Meeting with key UK SMR Programme members (NNL/NPL) concerned with analytical support for SMR projects at which the potential for EXACT to support related technology development was discussed.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description University of Southampton Stakeholders Advisory Board 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact EXACT exhibited at the University of Southampton School of Ocean and Earth Sciences Stakeholder Advisory Board, hosted at the NOC. The event provided the opportunity for cross-industry networking (within the broader ocean sciences industry). Held 23.07.23
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2023
 
Description UoS Geochemistry Lab Showcase 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Regional
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact NNUF EXACT was included within a research group showcase of laboratory facilities. The event provided the opportunity for the promotion of EXACT across the wider University community (i.e. other Schools / Faculties). The meeting resulted in at least one collaboration with university academics outside of the School of Ocean and Earth Science. Meeting held 02.02.22
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description UoS Research and Innovation Services 'Collaborate With Us' publication 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Article submitted to be included in the Universities Research and Innovation Service publication 'Collaborate With Us' aimed at engaging with external businesses and highlighting research groups/facilities to interact with. This is due to be distributed in 2021 and will promote the EXACT facility across all business and academia sectors currently engaged by the UoS. This will be particularly valuable in relation to non-nuclear sectors. Note that as this publication is to be released shortly, the impact is not yet known.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description UoS Staff Matters article 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach Local
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact EXACT Overview article published in University of Southampton Staff Matters publication (circulated to all staff). Increased exposure of the EXACT facility to all staff within UoS and highlighted opportunities for collaboration / project work. Published 05.08.21.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description Virtual meeting on nuclear decommissioning, waste management and geological disposal 
Form Of Engagement Activity A talk or presentation
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Professional Practitioners
Results and Impact Introductory presentation on the NNUF-EXACT Facility. Structure, Aims, Objectives. Primarily attended by academic audience with interests in waste management.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2020
 
Description XIAWG Meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact A short update on the progress of the EXACT Facility was provided to the Cross Industry Assay Working Group. Meeting held 27.01.22
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2022
 
Description XIAWG Meeting 
Form Of Engagement Activity A formal working group, expert panel or dialogue
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact Presentation given at the Cross Industry Assay Working Group on the EXACT Facility (introduction, aims and capability). Presentation given 27.05.21.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021
 
Description XIAWG Pipeline Workshop 
Form Of Engagement Activity Participation in an activity, workshop or similar
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach National
Primary Audience Industry/Business
Results and Impact NNUF-EXACT participated in a cross-industry workshop on challenges and solutions associated with pipeline characterisation and decom. Link to EXACT recorded in workshop 'chat' function.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2021