Central Argentina de Elementos Modulares, Nuclear reactor prototype in Zárate, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina
The CAREM is a nuclear reactor with an integral design where the entire cooling system sits within the reactor vessel and operates at uniform pressure. The facility sits next to the Atucha Nuclear Power Plant and relies on regular supplies of enriched uranium oxide for operation.
Construction of the CAREM-25 reactor started in 2014 as Argentina's first domestically designed nuclear power plant. This project marked an important turning point in the country's energy policy.
This project reflects Argentina's efforts to develop its own technology and reduce dependence on outside energy sources.
The reactor sits right next to an existing nuclear facility in Zárate, which gives it access to established infrastructure. Visitors should know that this is a research site with strict security protocols.
The reactor uses natural circulation for its cooling system, which eliminates the need for pumps and lowers accident risk. This passive safety feature is a particularly important part of its design.
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