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The US national isotope program: current status and strategy for future success
Mark J Rivard1, Leo M Bobek, Ralph A Butler
1Department of Radiation Oncology, Tufts-New England Medical Center, Boston, MA 02111, USA. mrivard@tuft-nemc.org
Summary
The United States faces isotope shortages for medical, security, and research needs due to underfunding. Realigning the Department of Energy's Isotope Program is crucial for a reliable national isotope supply.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Science
- Materials Science
- Medical Physics
Background:
- Stable and radioisotopes have been vital in the U.S. since the 1940s.
- Current isotope supply chains are insufficient for national needs, impacting research, medicine, and security.
- The national isotope infrastructure is at risk due to chronic underfunding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the critical shortage of essential isotopes in the United States.
- To highlight the risks to national security and medical advancements posed by insufficient isotope supply.
- To propose a framework for a sustainable National Isotope Program.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of current isotope production and supply capabilities.
- Assessment of the national isotope infrastructure, including facilities and personnel.
- Review of the U.S. Department of Energy's Isotope Program.
Main Results:
- New diagnostic and therapeutic isotopes are not being developed.
- Critical isotopes for national security and homeland security are in short supply.
- Commercial suppliers cannot meet all national demands, and the infrastructure is underfunded.
Conclusions:
- A consistent and reliable supply of isotopes is essential for research, medical, security, and space power applications.
- The U.S. Department of Energy must realign and refocus its Isotope Program.
- Implementing the provided recommendations can establish a successful National Isotope Program.