Visit of the delegation from the Institute of Plasma Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences
The visit began with a tour of the Dzhelepov Laboratory of Nuclear Problems, where the delegation visited the hall of the modernized LINAC-200 electron accelerator and the assembly workshop for optical modules of the Baikal-GVD megascience project.
The central event of the first day was a scientific seminar dedicated to discussing prospective projects and research programs. Director of the Laboratory of Nuclear Problems Evgeny Yakushev, while welcoming the seminar participants, thanked the Chinese colleagues for their visit and emphasized the significance of such events for discussing international cooperation.
The scientific program of the seminar was opened by presentations from ASIPP specialists. Researcher of the Engineering Department of the Institute of Plasma Physics Chen Yonghua delivered a report on achievements in the development of medical superconducting cyclotrons and proton radiotherapy systems. The development of research in the field of radiation materials science was highlighted by Deputy Head of the Department of Materials and Components for Fusion Reactors Xu Yuping. Head of the Diagnostic Department Liu Haiqing reported on the progress in creating new methods and systems for fusion plasma diagnostics.
Presentations were also made by JINR staff members from the Laboratory of Nuclear Problems, the Laboratory of High Energy Physics, and the Laboratory of Neutron Physics. Chief Engineer of the Laboratory of Nuclear Problems Sergey Yakovenko reported on the status of the MSC-230 superconducting isochronous cyclotron project, designed for proton beam therapy and biomedical research. The commissioning of the facility is scheduled for 2026.
Head of the Sector at the Laboratory of High Energy Physics Mikhail Novikov reported on the progress in creating an superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) systems for the power supply of the superconducting magnets of the Booster and the Nuclotron within the NICA accelerator complex. The scientist reported that the development of the system's key components is proceeding according to plan.
Engineer from the Laboratory of Neutron Physics Vladik Yamurzin presented the capabilities of the IBR-2 pulsed reactor for studying the radiation resistance of materials and electronic components. It was noted that the research conducted at the facility finds applications in various scientific fields, including the development of components for fusion reactors and accelerator complexes, the production of radiopharmaceuticals and medical isotopes, the study of archaeological artifacts using neutron activation analysis, and the investigation of radiation effects on cells and tissues of living organisms.
Director of the Laboratory of Neutron Physics Egor Lychagin emphasized the broad capabilities of the IBR-2 spectrometer complex and suggested considering the prospects for organizing joint fundamental and applied research with the Institute of Plasma Physics based on the FLNP base facilities.
In conclusion of the seminar, Assistant Director General of the Chinese Scientific Center Dong Shaohua noted the more than ten-year history of fruitful cooperation between the institutes. She highlighted research on the radiation resistance of materials for creating new-generation experimental installations and the development of advanced diagnostic technologies as key priorities for ASIPP, expressing confidence in the successful implementation of joint projects with JINR in these areas.
On the final day of the visit, excursions of the IBR-2 research reactor and the site of the NICA accelerator complex were organized for the representatives of the Institute of Plasma Physics. A meeting between JINR Director Grigory Trubnikov and Institute of Plasma Physics Director Song Yuntao was held at the Laboratory of High Energy Physics, where prospects for strengthening JINR-ASIPP international cooperation were discussed.
