Community uses the NCSU pulstar reactor

The North Carolina State University (NCSU) PULSTAR reactor is a 1-MW light water pool-type reactor that began operation in 1972 as part of the university's land grant mission for teaching, research, and service. The nuclear services program was formed at the same time to develop and provide nuclear analytical services for members of the university research and industrial community. The majority of these services are neutron activation analysis (NAA) and low-level counting. Other services include neutron radiography, prompt gamma analysis, and neutron depth profiling. Industrial short courses on radiation safety and radioisotope techniques are offered regularly. The PULSTAR reactor facility has more than 800 visitors per year, most of whom are secondary school students participating in reactor-sharing activities.