National Institute of Standards and Technology
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), a federal agency under the U.S. Department of Commerce, focuses on advancing measurement science, standards, and technology to enhance innovation and industrial competitiveness. Headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland, NIST operates the NIST
Key Stats
100/100
National Institute of Standards and Technology
Country: USA Fleet Size: 1 reactor(s) in platform database Total Tracked Capacity: —
Overview
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), a federal agency under the U.S. Department of Commerce, focuses on advancing measurement science, standards, and technology to enhance innovation and industrial competitiveness. Headquartered in Gaithersburg, Maryland, NIST operates the NIST Center for Neutron Research (NCNR), which houses a 20 MW pool-type research reactor used for neutron scattering experiments and materials research. In the civilian nuclear industry, NIST plays a critical role by providing essential data and testing capabilities for materials under neutron irradiation, supporting advancements in nuclear safety and reactor design. Globally, NCNR is recognized as a leading facility for neutron research, collaborating with academic, industrial, and governmental partners.
Recent Developments
In the past 12-24 months, NIST has continued to enhance the capabilities of the NCNR, with ongoing upgrades to instrumentation and experimental facilities to improve neutron scattering research, as reported in NIST's 2022-2023 updates. The agency has also strengthened partnerships with universities and international research organizations to expand access to NCNR resources, fostering collaborative studies on advanced materials for nuclear applications. Additionally, NIST has been involved in discussions on federal funding allocations for research infrastructure, ensuring sustained operation of the NCNR amidst broader U.S. science policy developments.
Reactor Fleet (Platform Database)
| Reactor | Country | Type | Capacity (MWe) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NIST Center for Neutron Research (NCNR) | USA | Pool | — | OPERATIONAL |
Sources
- Official Website — Official organization website
- IAEA Reactor Database — IAEA Power Reactor Information System
- World Nuclear Association — WNA nuclear industry reference
Enriched by Grok · Second Atomic Age Nuclear Wiki · 2026-05-10
Sources (1)
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