WANA (Jul 13) – While the production of heavy water is considered one of the strategic technologies in the nuclear industry, Iran has succeeded in joining the ranks of the ten countries possessing this technology through the establishment and development of the Khondab Heavy Water Complex.

 

In some types of nuclear reactors, heavy water is used instead of regular water. While regular water consists of one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms, heavy water is made of one oxygen atom and two deuterium atoms. Deuterium is a heavier isotope of hydrogen, and due to its greater mass, the compound is referred to as “heavy water.”

 

Iranian scientists have successfully developed the capability to produce this valuable substance, utilizing it for various applications. The Islamic Republic of Iran is now among just ten countries worldwide with an operational heavy water production facility.

 

Currently, large quantities of heavy water are produced annually at the Khondab Heavy Water Complex near the city of Arak, with a portion exported to international markets.

 

Heavy water, or D₂O, replaces ordinary hydrogen atoms (¹H) with the heavier isotope deuterium (²H or D). As deuterium is approximately twice as heavy as regular hydrogen, D₂O exhibits unique physical properties—most notably its ability to slow down neutrons effectively.

 

This makes it essential for nuclear reactors that use natural uranium fuel. As a result, D₂O is widely used in nuclear energy, medical isotope production, and scientific research.

 

The Khondab Heavy Water Complex (IR-40), located 55 kilometers northwest of Arak, covers an area of 20 hectares. It was entirely designed and constructed by domestic experts.

 

The project began with laboratory research in 1984, industrial construction started in 1998, and full-scale operations commenced in 2006. The site was selected due to its access to raw materials, seismic stability, and strategic location.

 

Today, Khondab heavy water is recognized as the second-most strategic nuclear material in Iran after uranium. Its estimated market value is approximately $1,000 per kilogram.

 

Following the JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action), Iran exported 32 tons of heavy water to the United States and 38 tons to Russia, and has been in talks with additional buyers in Asia and Europe.

 

The international market has responded positively to the high quality and durability of Iran’s heavy water and production systems.

 

It is noteworthy that during the 12-day conflict, the Israeli regime and the U.S. launched aggressive attacks on the IR-40 complex. However, it was promptly confirmed that there were no casualties or radioactive leaks, as the site had been evacuated in advance.

 

With a stable annual production rate of around 20 tons and ongoing successful exports, Iran remains among the top ten global producers and suppliers of heavy water. This position reflects a combination of high capacity, superior quality, and strong international demand.

 

The development and increasing efficiency of the Khondab facility clearly demonstrate Iran’s technological self-reliance. The rapid progress in redesigning the IR-40 reactor, expanding medical-grade production, and boosting exports has opened new economic and technical opportunities for the country.

 

Iran’s production of high-purity heavy water and its successful entry into global markets cement its status as a major player in the field.

 

The Khondab facility stands as a model of domestic innovation, showcasing the country’s ability to master complex nuclear technologies and generate revenue from strategic products.

The Arak nuclear facility after a U.S. strike. Social media/ WANA News Agency