Research and Development of Nuclear Science and Technology in Preparing the Nuclear Industry in Indonesia

Abstract

The Geneva conference sponsored by the United Nation (UN) in 1955, “On the peaceful uses of atomic energy” was held to promote a nuclear energy utilization path only for civil or peaceful purposes. Nuclear energy is used in more than 30 countries and contributes 16% of global electricity consumption. Indonesia has been developing its own capability for nuclear science and technology since 1954 with the aim of having a nuclear industry in Indonesia. Indonesian’s experiences of operating research reactors since 1965 for preparing a new era of nuclear industry in Indonesia can be used as a basis for science and technological capabilities for constructing its own nuclear industry. In relation to research and development (R&D) activities on nuclear science and engineering, Indonesia becomes the leading country on nuclear technology in South East Asia especially its operating experiences in nuclear research reactors. The nuclear industry, which is based on non electric application, has already been pursued such as for agriculture, medicine and hospital utilizations etc. In case of electric based utilization such as nuclear power plant (NPP), Indonesia has a plan for the first 2 NPPs to be constructed within 2010-2015 and this will be doubled by 2025 for fulfilling 4% of the nuclear electric share of the total national energy mix a long with other new and renewable energy sources.