NUCLEAR SCIENCE IN ACTION

DISCOVER HOW THE PHILIPPINE NUCLEAR RESEARCH INSTITUTE (PNRI) IS HARNESSING NUCLEAR TECHNOLOGY FOR INNOVATION AND PROGRESS. FROM RESEARCH AND INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS TO GROUNDBREAKING MEDICAL ADVANCEMENTS LIKE THE UPCOMING PET SCAN FACILITY, PNRI IS SHAPING A SAFER, MORE SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR NUCLEAR ADVANCEMENTS IN THE PHILIPPINES.

Few Filipinos are aware that the Philippines has a nuclear power plant in Bataan. This facility, built decades ago, was envisioned as a solution to make electricity more affordable and accessible for the country. However, public opinion on its safety became divided, particularly regarding the risks posed by natural calamities, especially in Bataan. As a result, the plant’s operations were halted, and it has remained dormant for so long. While the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant lies idle, a small yet active reactor operates in Quezon City. At the heart of the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) complex, nuclear technology is being utilized for research, education, and industry. Join us as we explore the innovative facilities within PNRI’s premises.

PHILIPPINE RESEARCH REACTOR-1 (PRR-1)

The Philippine Research Reactor-1 (PRR-1) holds the distinction of being the country’s first and only operational nuclear reactor, which ran from 1963 until its decommissioning in 1988. Established under the US Atoms for Peace Program, it marked the Philippines’ initial foray into nuclear energy. To maximize the use of the stored fuel elements from PRR-1, the PNRI launched the PRR-1 Subcritical Assembly for Training, Education, and Research (PRR-1 SATER). This small, zero-power reactor is designed for research, education, and nuclear-related training purposes. PRR-1 SATER showcases how nuclear technology can be harnessed safely for scientific advancement.

PHILGAMMA

Another key facility at PNRI is PHILGamma, a multipurpose gamma irradiation facility operated by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). This facility uses Cobalt-60, a radioactive source submerged in water, which emits a glowing blue light due to the phenomenon known as Cherenkov radiation. PHILGamma provides gamma irradiation services to various industries. It effectively eliminates microorganisms, sterilizes products, and decontaminates materials such as dried herbs, spices, and cosmetic raw ingredients. Unlike traditional sterilization methods, gamma irradiation ensures that food retains its flavor and quality. Impressively, products can even be treated while in their final packaging, showcasing the process’ efficiency and safety.

ELECTRON BEAM IRRADIATION FACILITY PNRI

also houses an Electron Beam Irradiation Facility (EBIF), established in 2014. This facility offers state-of-the-art services using high-voltage electron beams to sterilize medical and pharmaceutical goods. Beyond sterilization, the facility supports advancements in material science. It also enables degradation for recycling (breaking down materials for reuse), polymer crosslinking (enhancing the properties of polymer-based products, such as making wires flame-resistant or forming heat-shrinkable tubing), and liquid irradiation (treating liquid products for various industrial applications). These capabilities position PNRI as a hub for innovation, offering solutions for industries ranging from healthcare to manufacturing. While the dream of a fully operational nuclear power plant in the Philippines remains uncertain, facilities like those inside the PNRI demonstrate the country’s ability to harness nuclear technology responsibly and innovatively. Whether through research reactors, gamma irradiation, or electron beam technology, PNRI highlights the potential of nuclear science to improve lives and industries.

WHAT LIES AHEAD PNRI

is currently working on introducing a PET scan facility powered by nuclear technology. It aims to provide diagnostic imaging that can detect early signs of diseases including cancer, neurological disorders, and heart conditions. The facility will be using radioisotopes that will generate highly detailed images of biological processes within the body. It will be used to highlight any abnormal metabolic activity in cells providing accuracy in diagnosis. Once this project becomes operational, it will make PET scan more accessible to Filipinos and leverage nuclear technology in the country.