It employs natural uranium (that is, with 0.72% of 235U) and uses heavy water for cooling and neutron moderation.

Additionally, Embalse produces the cobalt-60 radioisotope, which is employed in medicine (cancer therapy) and industrial applications.

Argentina is one of the largest producers and exporters of this isotope in the world,[1] along with Canada and Russia.

Embalse was started in 1974 and began operation in 1983 (first criticality 13 March 1983, declared commercial 20 January 1984).

The plant was reconditioned to deliver power for another 30 years: the replacement of the four steam generators was one of the key steps.