Equipment Alley

Tuesday November 05, 2024 from 17:00 to 18:00

Room: Central

TT-Equip 2.4 The future of X-ray irradiation: Addressing supply chain risks and opportunities

Desmond B Harmon, United States

Systems Analysis
Global Security Systems Analysis
Sandia National Labratories

Abstract

The Future of X-ray Irradiation: Addressing Supply Chain Risks and Opportunities

Hannah Gagarin1, Desmond Harmon1.

1Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM, United States

The use of irradiation is relevant across industries, and demand will likely continue to grow. Irradiation processing typically relies on radioactive materials, such as 137Cs and 60Co, which present security risks, so that alternative, non-radiological methods are being adopted in research and commercial industries, and self-shielded X-ray irradiators have proven to be a widely accepted alternative technology across sectors. As adoption of X-ray irradiation increases, so do concerns regarding supply chain risks and resource management withing the industry. A large-scale disruption could have severe consequences, negatively impacting scientific research or medical treatment, and producing bottlenecks for commercially irradiated goods. No complete, single source document exists that examines the X-ray supply chain at a granular level; this project aims to evaluate the existing state of the global X-ray supply chain, identify current and potential vulnerabilities, and provide mitigation measures, to ensure future resiliency. The goal of this research is to achieve a deep understanding of the X-ray supply chain, and sustainability practices that might ensure future resiliency. Our methodology includes Subject Matter Expert (SME) interviews with relevant manufacturers and major stakeholders, a deep literature review and a meta-analysis of maintenance reports provided by self-shielded X-ray end-users. This research will communicate necessary information that can address concerns that current and future end-users may have, especially those who are interested in transitioning away from radioactive sources. Further, by extending the understanding of the X-ray supply chain, this work can also inform future policy aimed at supporting the irradiation industry.

 

Presentations by Desmond B Harmon


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