Reuters has reported that Iran has removed the core of its Arak heavy water nuclear reactor and filled the space with cement. This safety procedure is required under a nuclear deal signed with world powers last year.
Cements and concretes play an important role in nuclear industry operations including construction, waste immobilisation and in-situ stabilisation during decommissioning.
The move to reduce the plant's ability to produce plutonium may signal imminent implementation of the nuclear deal and enable Tehran to receive relief from economic sanctions.
According to the Ministry of Industries, Mines and Trade, Iran exported over 8.1 million t of cement and approximately 3.6 million t of clinker during the first seven months of the current calendar year.
Iran is to construct a 1 million tpa cement plant in Khaton Province, Iran, at an investment cost of US$ 500 million. It is scheduled for completion in one and a half years.