Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) has received shipments of radium-226 sources, no longer in use, from the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (TINT).
This material will be repurposed to produce actinium-225, a crucial element in targeted radiotherapy for cancer treatment.
Global Radium-226 Management Initiative
This collaborative effort is facilitated by the International Atomic Energy Agency’s (IAEA) Global Radium-226 Management Initiative.
The initiative aims to connect countries possessing outdated radiotherapy sources with those interested in recycling or reusing them.
Significance of Radium-226 and Actinium-225
According to the IAEA, radium-226, discovered in 1898 by Marie and Pierre Curie, was once used in radiotherapy but has been replaced by other sources.
Today, it serves as a vital precursor for producing the rare radioisotope actinium-225. Actinium-225, an alpha-emitting source, is renowned for its effectiveness in destroying malignant cells in targeted cancer treatments.
Its unique ability to be placed near tumors allows for precise radiotherapy, minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
Collaboration Between Thailand and Canada
TINT and CNL have been collaborating through the IAEA scheme since 2022, resulting in the successful transfer of 70 packages of disused radium-226 to Canada over the past year.
Archara Phattanasub, Head of TINT’s Radioactive Waste Technology and Development Section, highlighted the multiple benefits of recycling these sources for Thailand, aligning with circular economy objectives and reducing risks associated with storage.
Positive Impact on Both Countries
Jack Craig, President and CEO of CNL, praised the IAEA’s initiative, stating, “Their initiatives to assist donor nations in removing long-term liabilities while enabling a new radiotherapeutics industry is monumental.”
Olena Mykolaichuk, Director of the IAEA’s Division of Nuclear Fuel Cycle and Waste Technology, commended the collaboration as an exemplary model for complex source transportation operations involving multiple stakeholders.
She emphasized the IAEA’s commitment to fostering sustainable practices and its anticipation of continued success with this initiative.
Safe Transportation and Future Transfers
The transport of radioactive material adheres to strict regulations and oversight by national bodies and port authorities, with IAEA support before shipment. Additional transfers are planned this year, involving countries like El Salvador, Fiji, and Slovenia.