Mo99m

Molybdenum-99 (Mo-99) is a radioactive isotope of molybdenum. It is a critical radioisotope produced in nuclear reactors and is primarily used as the parent isotope for technetium-99m (Tc-99m), which is the most widely used medical radioisotope in nuclear medicine. Mo-99 itself has limited direct medical applications but is essential for generating Tc-99m.

The production of Mo-99 typically involves the irradiation of highly enriched uranium (HEU) or low enriched uranium (LEU) targets with neutrons in a nuclear reactor. After irradiation, the uranium target undergoes a chemical separation process to isolate the Mo-99. This process separates Mo-99 from fission products and other isotopes. The separated Mo-99 is then incorporated into a technetium-99m generator, often referred to as a "molybdenum-technetium cow."

In the generator, Mo-99 decays to Tc-99m. Tc-99m has a half-life of approximately six hours, which is ideal for diagnostic imaging in medicine. Its short half-life minimizes radiation exposure to the patient while allowing sufficient time for imaging procedures. Mo-99 has a half-life of about 66 hours, allowing for its transport and storage until the Tc-99m is needed. The decay of Mo-99 to Tc-99m releases gamma rays, which are detected by imaging devices like gamma cameras and SPECT scanners to visualize organs and functions within the body.

The global supply chain for Mo-99 is complex and has faced challenges due to the aging infrastructure of its few major production facilities. Efforts are underway to diversify production methods and ensure a reliable supply for medical diagnostics worldwide.