Enviro News Asia, South Tangerang — The Badan Riset dan Inovasi Nasional is accelerating the revitalization of its nuclear fuel fabrication facility to ensure the continued operation of the Reaktor Serba Guna G.A. Siwabessy.
The initiative focuses on upgrading facilities at Building 60 in the B.J. Habibie Science and Technology Area, following a comprehensive inspection conducted on March 16, 2026. The effort forms part of a broader strategy to support nuclear fuel production research and facilitate asset transfer from PT Industri Nuklir Indonesia to BRIN.
According to Maman Kartaman Ajiriyanto, Head of the Center for Nuclear Material and Radioactive Waste Technology, the inspection aimed to assess the condition of key equipment and determine necessary repairs to support the revitalization process.
The evaluation covered the entire nuclear fuel production chain, including material conversion, powder production, and fabrication of U3Si2-based fuel elements, along with quality control systems. Initial findings showed that most fabrication equipment remains in good condition and can be reactivated with routine maintenance and minor repairs.
However, several supporting systems require upgrades, particularly quality control instruments such as X-ray and ultrasonic testing devices, as well as welding equipment. Authorities also recommended improvements to ventilation systems and internal infrastructure to meet updated safety and operational standards.
The project involves collaboration among multiple institutions, including BRIN’s nuclear research units, the Badan Pengawas Tenaga Nuklir, PT INUKI, and academic partners such as Universitas Gadjah Mada. Experts with experience in nuclear fuel fabrication also contributed to the technical evaluation.
Supardjo, a senior researcher, noted that although the facility has been inactive since 2021, most damages are minor and can be addressed domestically. All inspection activities followed strict radiation safety protocols, including protective equipment and exposure monitoring.
BRIN emphasized the urgency of the revitalization, as current nuclear fuel supplies for RSG-GAS are projected to last only until 2026. The agency plans to implement upgrades in phases, beginning with safety systems and ventilation, followed by refurbishment of fabrication equipment and replacement of outdated quality control tools.
The initiative also highlights Indonesia’s domestic capabilities in nuclear technology, supported by experienced human resources from BRIN and PT INUKI. Academic collaboration will further contribute to modernization efforts, including digitalization of the facility.
Through coordinated efforts between government, industry, and academia, BRIN aims to secure long-term nuclear fuel supply, strengthen national self-reliance, and enhance Indonesia’s competitiveness in nuclear technology. (*)
