July 2011
The goal of the R&I WG is to coordinate the operating schedules of the Reactors that produce isotopes in order to provide continuity of isotope supply. Mo99 is the most sensitive isotope because there is high demand for the production of Tc-99m and because both Mo-99 and Tc-99m have a short half life.
 

Supply problems can occur when there are unplanned stops at the Reactors, or in the Processing Facilities, or problems occur with regard to licensing or product distribution. On the positive side; the number of Reactors producing isotopes has increased in the last two years which adds to defense in depth and the coordination activities now involve all major global players. However, there still remains the risk of shortages from time to time as reserve production capacity is inevitably limited at some points in the year.

 

The coordination of the Reactor operators and the Processors for Mo99 was successfully performed by the R&I WG during the recent supply difficulties. The R&I WG also provided help and support to the AIPES Directorate in cooperative actions with DG Energy and the OECD/NEA.
 

Within a recent DG Energy workshop, AIPES concluded that it is important for the EU, the regulators and governments to realise the severity of the Reactor industry’s problems; the high level of costs involved and the organisational effort needed to overcome the structural problems of Mo-99 supply. The OECD/NEA High Level Group on Security of Radioisotope Supply has recently published it’s Final Report, which includes a 6-point Policy Initiative which is required to improving future security of supply. The OECD/NEA has also recently announced a further 2 year initiative on this subject. AIPES and the R&I WG will continue to play an important role as this develops in the future; with particular emphasis on the implementation of the Policy Initiatives.