Radioisotope production is headed west to the Grand Canyon state as part of a formal contract between Arizona Isotope Science Research Corp. and Ion Beam Applications S.A.

The Belgium-based particle accelerator manufacturer has agreed to install a Cyclone 70 system for the continuous production and use of isotopes in diagnosing cardiovascular disease and other serious conditions.

“We selected IBA for its leading technology and unique know-how in developing high energy 70 MeV cyclotrons,” said Dr Sheldon Trubatch, AZI Corporate Secretary, in a statement. “IBA’s expertise will allow us to reach our objectives of supplying medical isotopes for the diagnosis and treatment of critical illnesses worldwide.”
Accelerating negative and positive ions up to 70 MeV, the Cyclone 70 system administers single or dual proton beams at a range of 30 to 70 MeV; single or dual deuteron beams between 15 and 35 MeV; and alpha beams at 70 MeV. It can also be designed for proton use only.

The solution utilizes Zephiros control system, equipped with an automated standard operating procedure that boosts productivity and saves time. In addition, the user-friendly software maximizes uptime by performing self-testing prior to production and automatic auditing after maintenance.

The Arizona project is the second installation of the system in the U.S., following behind its 2015 set up at Zevacor Molecular in Indiana for the production of Strontium-82. The basis of this endeavor was to provide access to a steady supply of Strontium-82/Rubidium-82 generators in the U.S. for diagnosing cardiovascular disease.

The first official implementation, known as the Arronax project, took place in Nantes, France and has been up and running since 2011. A third is currently underway in Moscow, Russia.

Installation of the Arizona system is worth between $16 and $20 million. The project is fully financed.

Molecular Imaging Homepage