HIFAR (High-flux Australian Reactor)
The HIFAR research reactor was situated at Lucas Heights in New South Wales, Australia, and operated by ANSTO. It was a cornerstone of Australian nuclear research for isotope production and neutron scattering over its 49-year operational history until its shutdown in 2007, when it was replaced by th
Key Stats
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HIFAR (High-flux Australian Reactor)
Status: SHUTDOWN_PERMANENT Category: RESEARCH Country: Australia Australia Operator: ansto Type: Heavy water [Heavy water](/library/wiki/technologies/Heavy water) Capacity: 10 MWth (thermal only)
Overview
The HIFAR research reactor was situated at Lucas Heights in New South Wales, Australia, and operated by ANSTO. It was a cornerstone of Australian nuclear research for isotope production and neutron scattering over its 49-year operational history until its shutdown in 2007, when it was replaced by the OPAL reactor. This 10 MWth heavy water reactor significantly advanced civilian nuclear applications.
Key Facts
Notes
Lucas Heights, NSW. Shut down 2007 and replaced by OPAL. Operated 49 years.
Source: IAEA PRIS / reactors_canonical · Enriched by Grok Last updated: 2026-05-10
Sources
- Wikipedia: HIFAR — Detailed overview of the High-flux Australian Reactor, including history and operational details.
- ANSTO Official Website — Information from the operator, ANSTO, about HIFAR's role and legacy.
- World Nuclear Association: Nuclear Power in Australia — Country profile covering Australia's nuclear research facilities, including HIFAR.
- World Nuclear News: HIFAR Replacement [UNVERIFIED] — Article on the shutdown of HIFAR and its replacement by the OPAL reactor in 2007.
Sources (1)
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