Major Projects:
Isotope R&D and Production:
The RMAL provides measurements vital to support ORNL’s initiative to provide strategic capabilities for R&D and production of isotopes for research, commercial, and medical interests. Specifically, the RMAL has developed analytical separations and measurement protocols using the latest technologies for characterizations of samples from chemical processing and qualification of Ra-226 targets and Ac-227 products for the Ac-227 Production Program. The Ac-225 COW and Tri-lab projects. And recovery of Th-229 though a strategic partnership with ISOTEK.
Nuclear Science Technologies and Systems:
The RMAL provides measurements vital to support ORNL’s initiative to achieve breakthroughs in nuclear science and technologies. Specifically, the RMAL has developed novel hybrid analytical protocols and radiochemistry routines to achieve rapid high resolution separations for quantification of trace fission and activation products in irradiated fuels to document fuel performance and provide data for verification/improvement of reactor codes. These data are in such areas as the development of new more efficient and accident tolerant fuel designs and to fill gaps in reactor codes for high burn fuels.
Environmental Stewardship:
The RMAL provides measurements vital to support ORNL’s participation in the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPS) and the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). Specifically, the RMAL analyzes several matrices, including charcoal, air filters, silica gel, and water samples, for both non-radiological (E. Coli, TDS, and CBOD) and radiological (tritium, Sr-90, gamma emitting isotopes, alpha emitting isotopes, and gross alpha and beta) constituents. In addition, the RMAL provides analytical data for legacy waste characterization through partnerships with UCOR and Northwinds.