Nuclear technologies

Nuclear technologies and ionizing radiation for the benefit of society
From a historical background within research for the peaceful exploitation of nuclear energy, Risø DTU continues to contribute with research in nuclear technologies and ionizing radiation. Today, focus is on their application in medical sciences, the measurement of radiation dose and in the efficient detection and analysis of radioactive isotopes in environmental samples.

In addition, Risø DTU plays a significant role in the national nuclear preparedness programme and radioprotection surveillance.

With its activities, Risø DTU continues to expand the opportunities and use of nuclear technologies for the benefit of society.

Radiopharmaceuticals

With its main competences in isotope production, radiochemistry, radiolabelling and radiopharmacy, The Hevesy Laboratory participates at many levels in the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals

Isotope production

The Hevesy Laboratory is specialised in the production of a wide number of radioactive isotopes for medical and technical purposes. The Laboratory is equipped with a cyclotron on which daily productions of radioactive isotopes are carried out. These isotopes are mainly used in the production of radiopharmaceuticals used at different hospitals in Denmark. Many of our ongoing research projects therefore focus on the interesting applications of these isotopes, which we also deliver to some of our external collaborators. The Hevesy Laboratory is also involved in the production and use of new radioactive isotopes for radionuclide therapy.

Radioecological studies

Studies are carried out on environmental radioactivity including monitoring activities in Denmark, the Faroe Islands and Greenland.

The research focuses on the transfer of radioactivity in the environment and through food chains, and the monitoring activities test if radioactivity levels in the environment and food are below national and international limits.

The analytical work is specialised in detecting very low levels of radioactivity requiring significant pre-treatment of samples prior to radionuclide analysis.
  

Nuclear power and emergency preparednes

Within the field of reactor physics and nuclear emergency preparedness means for neutronics calculations for both fission and fusion reactors are developed. Risø DTU develops methods for calculation of atmospheric dispersion of radioactive materials and assists the Danish Emergency Management Authority with know-how on reactor physics, radiation protection, and the safety of nuclear installations.  

Medical and industrial dosimetry

Development of methods and instruments for dosimetry for radiation therapy and diagnostics, nuclear medicine, and radiation sterilization.
The research is carried out in close collaboration with Danish and foreign hospitals and with the medico technical industry. It both supports a national demand for development of better and more precise methods of cancer treatment using radiotherapy, and it supports trade in sterile medical devices.

Retrospective dosimetry


Basic and applied research in optically stimulated luminescence (OSL) aims at developing methods and instruments for retrospective dosimetri including dosimetri for geological age determination.
Risø DTU develops instruments for radiation measurements and dosimetry and is internationally renowned for its Risø TL/OSL Reader that globally is used for research and for age determination of geological sediments.


Sven Poul Nielsen
Head of Programme
Radiation Research (NUK)
Dir tel+45 46775340