January 17, 1958
The U.S. Atomic Energy Commission endorsed ORNL’s High Flux Isotope Reactor
The status of the transuranium production program was critically reviewed by the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) Division of Research at a meeting on January 17, 1958.
At that time, the AEC decided to embark on a program designed to meet the anticipated needs for transuranium isotopes by undertaking certain irradiations in existing reactors. By late 1958, it became apparent that acceleration of this program was desirable.
Following a meeting in Washington, D.C., on November 24, 1958, the AEC recommended that a high-flux reactor be designed, built, and operated at ORNL, with construction to start in FY 1961.
High Flux Isotope Reactor (HFIR). General view in the high bay area, second floor of reactor building, 82 percent complete. January 13, 1964
(Photo Credit: ORNL/U.S. Dept. of Energy)
