SCK are currently constructing a new plant to manufacture NF3. This product is used in the manufacture of flat panel VDUs and as a high purity cleaning agent for silicon wafers in the semiconductor industry. Operation of this facility will sustain 250 jobs including 50 workers formerly engaged in the development and production of weapons of mass destruction.

The technology for the production is based on a method developed by "Newchem Ltd" which is based in St Petersburg. It has a pilot plant that is being relocated to Seversk and will be used in the training project. Training will include:

• theoretical and physico-chemical basis of the production method;
• safe and efficient procedures for operation of the plant;
• methods of analytical support to NF3 production.

NewChem Ltd and SCK are jointly developing a detailed training programme. To be delivered by qualified NewChem trainers to 2 groups. When the training programme is completed a joint commission of NewChem and SCK staff will review the success of the programme.