New Options for Security, Industry, Medicine and Science
The Radioisotope Science and Technology Division (RSTD) is a global leader in actinide science, research and development of the 15 metallic chemical elements with atomic numbers from 89 to 103, actinium through lawrencium. Scientists at ORNL are continually improving radiochemical processing methods, allowing the lab to produce and rapidly deliver radioisotopes for national security, industry, medicine and scientific innovation.
Historic Expertise, Future Innovation
Historic Expertise, Future Innovation
Historic expertise in nuclear materials processing and characterization and radioisotope production makes ORNL a natural fit to research new uses for radioisotopes, produce and package currently in-demand radioisotopes and innovate better applications and processes. The lab facilities make possible innovations in feedstock processing, target design and fabrication, safety assessments, target disassembly, and radiochemical science and engineering to purify products to meet sponsors' and customers' needs.
Needs include radioisotopes for medical tests and treatments, research and industrial applications. But it also applies to researching, developing and deploying technology that enhances nuclear nonproliferation and safeguards, reduces threats to nuclear material and at-risk facilities, and expands national capabilities in radiation detection and nuclear forensics. For this work, scientists in the Radioisotope Science and Technology Division collaborate with the National Nuclear Security Administration, Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, Department of State, and other government agencies.
Areas
Radioisotope Production Engineering and Analysis Section
Process Coordination
This group integrates isotope production, research and development, waste management, and maintenance activities for the REDC hot cells.
Project Integration and Material Accountability Group
This group helps coordinate lab space, set priorities for projects, nuclear material management and try to ensure quality and compliance in our day-to-day operations.
