Research facilities of the Material Research Laboratory, Department of the Institute of Atomic Energy, Otwock-Swierk, Poland

Material Research Laboratory of the Institute of Atomic Energy has the certificates and authorities confirming the very high level of investigations and other works performed according to the Quality Assurance Programme. The equipment of MRL is always completed and modernised. In the last time we are concentrated on the crack toughness of structural materials studies. In the investigation we apply the fracture mechanics using the modern computer programmes to permit to prognosis the residual life of construction with consideration of the materials properties, parameters of work - in this influence of irradiation as well as history of the construction. Laboratory maintains, nevertheless of funds, the readiness to the work with the active materials according to the statutory duty. However, the possibilities of irradiated materials examination are not turned to full account from the absences of nuclear power station in Poland. This situation allows to take co-operation with the other institutions in the scope of the investigation of both irradiated and non-irradiated materials. MRL is engaged in the preparing experts opinions and technical reports for materials according with licence of Polish Centre for Testing and Certification and Office of Technical Inspection. In particular we perform the investigations of the pipe lines and boiler for conventional power stations, the pipe lines for gas transportation and the other industrial plants. We use in the studies both non-destructive and destructive methods. (author)