Apr 03, 2024
The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR) recently hosted a ceremony to mark the conclusion of the Phase 1 of the Numerical Modelling of Radionuclides Dispersion (MORAD) research programme. Launched in 2017 in collaboration between FANR, Khalifa University and the French Institute for Radiological Protection and Nuclear Safety (IRSN), the MORAD project aims to build and streamline research capacities of national entities in studying the effect of radiation on marine, atmospheric and terrestrial environments in order to assess the impact on public exposure and the environment.
One of the key achievements are the publishing of 11 research papers, which cast light on crucial aspects of the UAE's environment, contributing significantly to the body of scientific literature globally as well as supporting efforts in importing the UAE Radiological Environmental Monitoring Programme.
The project outcome has a long-term impact on the scientific community as it focused on enhancing comprehension of radionuclide dispersion mechanisms, development of a bespoke marine dispersion model tailored to the Gulf region's unique characteristics.
Since the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant has three operational units, FANR ensures the protection of the public and the environment by placing importance on adopting an integrated research and development programme to boost research capabilities and exchange expertise among stakeholders to achieve the goal. In addition, FANR, via its Environmental Laboratory, works to develop capabilities within the UAE to provide independent measurements to gauge radiation activity in the environment. It also conducts radiation background measurement in the country by gathering samples from the soil, water and vegetables and others to identify the radiation baseline for future references since the nuclear power plant is commercially operational. Such activities help contribute to maintain a line of defense to the public and the environment alike.