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NUCLEAR PHYSICS INSTITUTE OF THE CAS

The NPI’s research findings have found application in archaeology and elsewhere. For example, a team led by Prof. J. Kucera…

INTRO

The Nuclear Physics Institute of the CAS is the largest institution focused on basic and applied research in the field of nuclear physics in the Czech Republic. One of the Institute’s prime tasks is to cooperate with colleagues and universities to train upcoming experts in the field. Its core facilities are four accelerators and neutron diffractometers using the neutron channels of the LVR-15 reactor, operated by the Research Centre Řež (CVŘ s.r.o.). In cooperation with a number of international institutions it is engaged in studying nuclear materials and transitions between their various stages by using of heavy ion collisions, focusing on experimental low-energy nuclear, theoretical and mathematical physics. In the area of applied nuclear physics its focus is on prospective use in the energy sector; in addition, on the development of nuclear analytical methods used in archaeology, ecology, and using neutron diffraction for the study materials. The most important aplications include the development and production of radiopharmaceuticals and use of ionizing radiation dosimetry.

SUCCESS STORIES

The NPI’s research findings have found application in archaeology and elsewhere. For example, a team led by Prof. J. Kucera has in cooperation with Danish institutions been engaged in a long-term project examining the mortal remains of the famous astronomer Tycho Brahe. Determination of the mercury content in his hair and bones has dispelled the widespread supposition that he was poisoned by the mercury-containing substance. The NPI department of radiation dosimetry has organized (with participation of ABS Jets airline service) the world´s largest comparative test of instruments to measure cosmic radiation, in a nine-nation joint endeavour. The NPI has also been conducting food analysis by nuclear methods (e.g. measuring the silicon content in beer using the MT-25 accelerator), measuring the radiation resistance of crystals for the Crytur company, or determining the origin of a variety of materials.

FOR THE PUBLIC

  • Open days
  • Participation in the Science Fair
  • Lectures by V. Wagner and other INP staff
  • Research hot air balloon flights with instruments to measure cosmic rays
  • Excursions – for secondary schools and the general public

Adress: www.ujf.cas.cz