Laser Megajoule

The Megajoule nuclear test simulation centre is a scientific facility located at Le Barp in the Gironde region, built on behalf of the French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energies Commission (CEA).

Three Bouygues Construction companies, including Bouygues Travaux Publics, were responsible for the civil engineering and secondary works for this large-scale complex, which covers a footprint of 40,000 m² and includes 150,000 m² of floor space.

The main building houses a central experiment room, surrounded by two halls accommodating 240 laser beams. The project required significant volumes, with 150,000 m³ of concrete and 18,000 tonnes of steel, in order to meet the programme’s structural and functional requirements.

Designed to guarantee exceptional stability, the complex rests on foundations dimensioned to limit any vibrations that could alter scientific experiments.
The walls, floors, and ceilings of the experiment room are up to 2 meters thick, providing protection, containment, and mechanical inertia.

The project also includes a range of specialized technical equipment, such as overhead cranes, elevators, and heavy doors, which are necessary for the site's operation.

With its mastery of safety, precision, and durability requirements, the Laser Mégajoule project is one of the main elements of the program designed to ensure the sustainability of France's nuclear deterrent after the definitive end of nuclear testing under real conditions.