Radioactivity
Most cyclotrons in the Netherlands are used to make radioactive materials that detect cancer. Cyclotrons are installed in concrete bunkers to protect the surroundings from radiation released in the process. The concrete of the bunker will have become slightly radioactive through use. A permit had to be requested to ensure decommissioning and other work could be carried out safely. ANVS made a positive decision on the permit request. The cyclotrons that will be decommissioned have been replaced by new cyclotrons in the Amsterdam UMC Imaging Center. The production of the radioactive materials will also take place there soon.
Decommissioning
Radioactive metal and concrete will be released during the decommissioning of the cyclotron. Some of this material will be very slightly radioactive. This means that the decommissioning will not pose a danger to people at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam or the immediate surroundings. The radiation that is released to the environment as a whole during decommissioning of the cyclotron is comparable to an X-ray at the dentist or a flight to southern Portugal.
Decommissioning of the cyclotron is part of the demolition of VU Amsterdam’s Maths and Physics building. Preparatory work is expected to begin in mid-2024. The entire process will be carried out diligently, in accordance with prevailing safety standards and with due care for employees, students and local residents.
Additional information
More information on the decommissioning of cyclotrons in the Netherlands can be found on the RIVM website or on ANVS.nl.
For frequently asked questions, see vu.nl/development – decommission cyclotron on our website. If you have any questions related to this post, please send an e-mail to: servicedesk.fco@vu.nl.