TECHNETIUM IN THE NUCLEAR-FUEL CYCLE, IN MEDICINE AND IN THE ENVIRONMENT

Formation of Tc-99 in nuclear reactors and the fate of Tc in reprocessing plants are described. Mo-99/Tc-99m radionuclide generators for use in nuclear medicine, the production of Mo-99, the importance of nuclear purity control and the selection of suitable compounds of Tc are discussed. The ways by which Tc may enter the environment, the dissolution of TcO2 and the different migration and sorption behaviour of Tc(IV) and Tc(VII) are explained and the importance of the interaction of Tc with organic compounds is emphasized.