NEA 2016 Feb 051

The NEA Expert Group on Robotics, and Emerging and Advanced Techniques in the Nuclear Back-end (EGREAT) was established in January 2026 to promote the exchange of information on robotics and state-of-the-art techniques’ development and application, including lessons learned and good practices.

Modern robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) are now reliable enough to work in real-world environments. The nuclear back-end is an especially challenging field because of radiation, contamination, limited access and implications of delays – precisely where these technologies can make the biggest difference.

In this context, the EGREAT will focus on the following topics: 

  • Analysis of human issues with robotic technologies and system integration in nuclear back-end operations; 
  • Data management, collection, analysis and storage, including cyber security and artificial intelligence in the context of nuclear applications;
  • Applications of novel technologies and techniques for: (i) radiological mapping and characterisation; (ii) decontamination, remediation, dismantlement, and demolition; and (iii) the handling, transportation, and storage of radioactive waste, all with a focus on reducing dose exposure and minimising waste generation, including through the reuse and recycling of materials; and
  • Identification of ecosystems and frameworks fostering innovation including through the optimisation of regulatory approval pipelines.

The EGREAT succeeds the Expert Group on the Application of Robotics and Remote Systems in the Nuclear Back-end (EGRRS) and the Expert Group on Innovative Technologies and Techniques to Support Characterisation and Decommissioning of Complex and Legacy Sites (EGTCD), both of which concluded at the end of 2025. 

Organisations from member countries are invited to nominate experts to join this group. For more information, send an email to: nea@oecd-nea.org.  

See also