Year
2023
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy
Department
School of Physics
Abstract
99Mo is an essential medical radioisotope that comprises of at least 70% of procedures globally. Currently an essential component of 99Mo manufacturing is the enriched uranium target from which 99Mo is produced by fission. As the world moves towards low enriched uranium (LEU) targets due to non-proliferation concerns it is becoming of interest to find methods to increase the efficiency of the LEU targets to reduce the ever-increasing nuclear waste levels of which a long-term solution for disposal or treatment has yet to be satisfactorily found. In this thesis I examine advantages and disadvantages of various target designs and investigate and discuss the current disposal and reprocessing methods. The idea of a reusable target is introduced as a way forward in reducing the nuclear waste burden for future generations, generated in the production of 99Mo.
Recommended Citation
Raposio, Robert, Development of a reusable low-enriched uranium target for sustainable fission-produced 99Mo, Doctor of Philosophy thesis, School of Physics, University of Wollongong, 2023. https://ro.uow.edu.au/theses1/1827
Unless otherwise indicated, the views expressed in this thesis are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the University of Wollongong.