ORNL 3D Prints Radioactive Isotopes to Diagnose America's Surging Heart Conditions

For the first time in around 30 years, radioactive isotope molybdenum-99 (Mo-99) has been produced in the United Sates – 3D printed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Vital to the production of the most commonly used radio-imaging isotope in modern medicine, the 3D printed Mo-99 presents an important step towards commercial production of the material for U.S. healthcare.

It is also a crucial part of an international effort to limit the production of highly enriched uranium (HEU) – an element that has created widespread concern due to its use in nuclear weapons, and ability to fly under the radar. Read more.