K-State’s nuclear facility aids research, preps young workers for surge in local demand

Kansas State University officials gave a tour of its research-focused nuclear reactor facility on Thursday, explaining how 60-plus years of operation have aided fields beyond nuclear engineering, from health care to agriculture to manufacturing.

K-State’s low-enriched uranium-fueled reactor is one of only 25 university-operated research reactors in the country, and the only one in Kansas. It has a 1.25 megawatts licensed power level — the fourth highest among universities.

Because the reactor doesn’t make use of its generated heat, no power is produced for the university’s campus or surrounding areas. Instead, the TRIGA Mark II nuclear reactor is utilized for research, training and workforce engagement.

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