Iran unveils Cesium-137 for medical, industrial use

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
27 Aug 2023 15:58

Iran has made a significant stride by introducing Cesium-137, a versatile radionuclide, for applications in both medical and industrial domains.

Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI), talks on stage at the International Atomic Energy's (IAEA) General Conference in Vienna, Austria, September 20, 2021. (AP)

Iran introduced Cesium-137, a radionuclide offering medical and industrial utility, during an unveiling on Sunday.

Radionuclides, also termed radioisotopes, are radioactive versions of elements, often generated by exposing appropriate materials to nuclear reactor neutron flux for a specific duration.

Cesium-137, with a 30-year half-life, doesn't occur naturally and is primarily sourced from used nuclear fuel and radioactive waste. Its applications encompass radiation devices, brachytherapy, radiotherapy, calibration mechanisms, and a range of industrial gauges.

Additionally, Cesium-137 is essential for irradiating blood products, cosmetics, food items, and other goods.

Following the unveiling, Mohammad Eslami, head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (AEOI), affirmed the nation's unwavering commitment to nuclear advancement. He emphasized the result of a 6-month endeavor and underscored Iran's independent production of cesium and molybdenum. Eslami highlighted the positive implications for sectors such as oil, gas, and medicine.

It is worth noting that Cesium-137 radionuclide finds diverse uses in medicine and industry, including radiation devices, brachytherapy, and radiotherapy.

Elsewhere in his remarks, Eslami mentioned an upcoming visit by the IAEA's deputy chief to Iran and affirmed the country's collaboration within the framework of safeguards and the NPT. He shared his participation in the forthcoming IAEA General Conference in Vienna, revealing Iran's plans to host its inaugural exhibition at the event. Eslami asserted Iran's active engagement within the agency, anticipating a more influential presence to contribute to committee discussions and the agency's agenda.

"We are an official and active member of the agency and have the most extensive interactions. This year we will have a stronger presence than last year. The agenda is the program announced by the agency and we will play a role in the committees," he said.

Last month, the Deputy Head of Nuclear Planning and Strategic Supervision at the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) Mohammad Ghannadi highlighted the importance of diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals in the identification of various diseases.