An official website of the United States government

Official websites use .gov
A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock ( usa-lock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Shipment leaving the Savannah River Site

Nuclear Nonproliferation

K Area Complex

The K Area Complex (KAC) is the only Category 1 nuclear material storage facility at the Savannah River Site. Home to the K Area Nuclear Materials Management Program, KAC utilizes the K Area Material Storage facility, located in Building 105-K, for the extended safe storage of plutonium and other special nuclear materials.

Building 105-K, formerly home to the K Reactor, played a critical role in supporting the United States’ national defense during the Cold War. As the nation’s last operating production reactor, it was permanently shut down in 1992 after nearly 40 years of service.

The Department of Energy selected the 105-K facility as its primary plutonium storage site for several reasons:

  • Enhanced Safety: The facility underwent rigorous earthquake and structural upgrades in the early 1990s, ensuring its robustness.
  • Structural Integrity: 105-K is constructed with thick concrete walls, providing exceptional protection.
  • Existing Security: Much of the necessary security infrastructure was already in place, reducing the need for extensive modifications.
  • Cost Efficiency: Only minor upgrades were required, offering significant cost savings.

K Area Complex at Savannah River Site
K Area Complex at Savannah River Site

Supporting National and Global Security

KAC is responsible for the safe handling and interim storage of the nation’s surplus plutonium and other special nuclear materials. It is the only facility within the U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise to host International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards, underscoring its commitment to international security standards. Additionally, KAC receives nuclear materials from abroad through the Gap Program, supporting global nonproliferation efforts.

KAC is poised to meet evolving national needs and is prepared to support future plutonium missions as requirements change. The facility’s robust infrastructure and adaptable operations ensure that it can continue to play a vital role in the safe management of nuclear materials for years to come.