Russian Student Develops Innovative Radiation Sensor for Nuclear Power Plants
Lev Nikiforov, a graduate student at St. Petersburg State University of Telecommunications named after Professor M. A. Bonch-Bruevich, has developed a fiber-optic sensor to monitor gamma radiation at nuclear power plants.
A working prototype of the device has already been created and is being prepared for patenting, opening prospects for its installation at nuclear power plants and facilities within the nuclear fuel cycle.
The Problem of Radiation-Induced Degradation
Traditional radiation sensors used at nuclear facilities have a fundamental limitation: their sensitive elements gradually degrade under gamma radiation exposure. In fiber-optic sensors, the glass fiber located directly in the radiation zone accumulates structural defects over time, which reduces light transmission. This eventually leads to loss of measurement accuracy and the need to replace the equipment.
For critical infrastructure facilities – including nuclear reactors, spent fuel storage sites, and radioactive material processing plants – this degradation presents a dual challenge. First, continuous monitoring of radiation levels is compromised. Second, each sensor replacement in a high-radiation zone requires careful planning, adherence to safety regulations, and the involvement of trained personnel.
Innovative Solution
Under the supervision of Diana Dmitrieva, a faculty member of the Department of Optical and Quantum Communication Systems at SPbSUT, the development introduces a fundamentally new approach. The sensor incorporates an additional laser beam that reduces accumulated absorption in the fiber and partially restores its transparency. This significantly extends the operational life of the device without sacrificing accuracy.
A key factor is the selection of a special type of fiber with an optimal balance between radiation sensitivity and durability. Fibers that are too sensitive degrade quickly under radiation, while overly resistant fibers fail to provide the required measurement precision. The compromise achieved allows the sensor to maintain functionality far longer than existing alternatives.
The optical fiber is placed directly in the radiation zone, while the measurement instruments are located at a safe distance – up to two kilometers from the radiation source. This enables remote monitoring of radiation levels without risk to personnel.
Practical Application
Beyond nuclear reactors, the sensor can be used in spent fuel storage facilities, radioactive material processing plants, and other sites handling radioactive substances. Its principal advantage is the ability to conduct continuous remote monitoring, reducing maintenance costs and enhancing the overall reliability of the radiation monitoring system.
Each sensor replacement in controlled-access zones requires permits, radiation checks, and adherence to time limits for personnel exposure. Extending sensor service life reduces these operational costs.
Scientific Recognition and Prospects
The work has already been recognized by the scientific community. Nikiforov reached the final round of the 12th All-Russian Engineering Competition for Students and Postgraduates, presenting research on the remote sensor and relaxation processes of radiation defects in optical fiber. The research has been highlighted at professional conferences, including ElCon at the Saint Petersburg LETI University, the Lomonosov Conference at Moscow State University, and scientific forums in Kazan.
One of the related research papers is being prepared for publication in the journal Izvestiya RAS. Physics Series, confirming the scientific significance of the work and its adherence to high academic standards.
Before industrial deployment, the technology will undergo extensive testing under real radiation conditions, validation of operational lifetime in service environments, and certification for use at nuclear facilities. The nuclear sector is known for its conservative approach to new technologies, particularly in safety systems where reliability takes precedence over innovation.
The emergence of Russian solutions in radiation monitoring is particularly significant amid the national emphasis on technological sovereignty.
