Nuclear Research Building Addition

This multi-phase project expanded and modernized McMaster University’s Nuclear Research facilities, supporting advanced research in medical, nuclear, and applied radiation sciences. The scope included a new three-storey addition with specialized laboratories and clean rooms, major upgrades to the Nuclear Reactor Facility, and construction of the Tandem Accelerator Cyclotron Renovation (TACR). 

Construction: 
Three-storey structural steel addition with helical pile foundations, concrete decks, curtain wall, and aluminum composite panel envelope. Designed to minimize vibration impacts to neighbouring research facilities while maintaining tight site access and active campus operations. 

Key Features: 

• Level 2 clean room, cold room, and two floors of laboratory and research space
• Office level housing the Centre for Probe Development and Commercialization (CPDC) and Reactor Group
• Engineered foundation system with 114 helical piles installed at varied angles to mitigate vibration and avoid major underground utilities
• Secure facility meeting nuclear regulatory requirements with specialized animal facilities and elevated security systems 

Nuclear Reactor Upgrades: 

• Mechanical and electrical system modernization supporting reactor operations
• Retrofit of overhead polar crane and new reactor process pumps installed under high-radiation protocols 
• Coordinated one-week reactor shutdowns for critical work without interrupting isotope production 
• All workers trained as Nuclear Energy Workers with strict safety and exposure management procedures 

Tandem Accelerator Cyclotron Renovation (TACR): 

• Construction of a concrete underground vault to house McMaster’s first cyclotron unit with 5-ft-thick shielding walls and 30-ton vault door 

LEED Silver targeted – LEED Gold achieved