Improved metrological traceability of challenging-to-measure radionuclides
The BIPM is pleased to announce the receipt of the first standard solution of Technetium-99 (99Tc) from the LNE-LNHB (France) for measurement using the newly implemented Extension of the International Reference System (ESIR). This marks the launch of the BIPM.RI(II)-K5 comparison, with the first of the 14 isotopes selected by the Consultative Committee for Ionizing Radiation (CCRI).
Technetium-99, a long-lived by-product of medical diagnostics, nuclear industry activities and fallout testing, is a significant concern for the environment. The BIPM and NMIs are proud to contribute to enhancing the metrological traceability of this challenging-to-measure radionuclide.
The ESIR was developed and implemented at the BIPM after three years of collaborative effort. It enables the measurement of radionuclides that could not previously have been assessed by the original SIR system, allowing NMIs and Designated Institutes (DIs) to obtain degrees of equivalence for these specific isotopes.