A new system for producing Molybdenum 99

Argonne researchers Tom Brossard, Ronald Kmak, and Peter Tkac were awarded a U.S. patent for streamlining the production of medical isotopes, specifically the method and system for automating the purification of Molybdenum 99. The process involves a series of purification steps such as precipitation, filtration, and re-dissolution where the Mo-99 isotope is selectively isolated from impurities through an automated process. This automation reduces the reliance on skilled labor, minimizes human error, and enhances safety by containing radioactive materials within a closed-loop system. The system also aims to enhance efficiency by reducing the time required for purifying the Mo-99 isotope, thereby minimizing product loss due to radioactive decay.

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