Framatome and Nucleoeléctrica Argentina: An alliance to revolutionize nuclear medicine.
Framatome and Nucleoeléctrica Argentina have just taken a crucial step by teaming up to explore production of medical radioisotopes short-lived directly in Argentine nuclear power plants. An ambitious initiative that could transform the nuclear medicine industry.
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Lutetium-177: A nuclear response to medical challenges
At the heart of this partnership, the objective is to assess the technical and economic feasibility of producing Lutetium-177a key isotope in cancer treatments. This short-lived radioisotope, already used throughout the world, offers promising solutions for the targeted therapy of certain cancers. If the study confirms the production potential in the Atucha I, Atucha II and Embalse plants, this initiative will mark a major step forward for nuclear medicine in Argentina.
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A Franco-Argentinian collaboration anchored in nuclear history
During the signing ceremony in Buenos Aires, Alberto Lamagna, President of Nucleoeléctrica Argentina, and François Gauché, Vice President of Framatome Healthcare, highlighted the decades of collaboration between their two companies. “Framatome and Nucleoeléctrica share a long history of cooperation for the safe and sustainable operation of Argentinian reactors,” said François Gauché. This agreement is the natural extension of this relationship, aiming to exploit nuclear capabilities beyond electricity production.
A study in 2 stages
The feasibility study, planned for one year, will take place in two phases:
- Technical analysis : Evaluate whether existing infrastructure can be adapted to the production of Lutetium-177.
- Economic analysis : Examine the costs and benefits of this new activity to ensure its commercial viability.
These steps will identify the challenges and opportunities related to the integration of medical isotope production into nuclear power plants.
The Argentinian-Canadian experience: An inspiring model
Argentina already has recognized expertise in the commercial production of radioisotopes, notably Cobalt-60, produced for decades at the Embalse plant. Used in medicine and industry, Cobalt-60 has established Argentina as a key player in the sector. This model inspires this new project, while Framatome brings its proprietary technology, already in use in Canada in a CANDU reactor to produce Lutetium-177.
A partnership with high added value
The current global context, marked by a growing demand for innovative medical solutions, offers a strategic opportunity for this partnership. By combining Framatome's technical expertise with Nucleoeléctrica's operational experience, the project could position Argentina as a leader in nuclear medicine in Latin America. “We seek to develop applications that add value to the nuclear production chain,” said Alberto Lamagna, illustrating the ambition to diversify the Argentine nuclear industry.
A global market for Lutetium-177?
In addition to its local potential, this project could also have international scope. Similar initiatives are underway in Romania, and the technology developed by Framatome has demonstrated its effectiveness on several continents. Argentina could thus become a production hub to meet the growing global demand for Lutetium-177.
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This article explores how Framatome and Nucleoeléctrica Argentina are joining forces to revolutionize Lutetium-177 production in Argentine nuclear power plants. By combining technical and operational expertise, this partnership promises to transform nuclear medicine and strengthen Argentina's role in this strategic sector. An ambitious initiative, symbol of a nuclear industry looking to the future and serving global health.
Source: Framatome
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