Impact of LIS technology on internal dosimetry

Laser isotope separation (LIS) is the process that may be used to separate fissile isotopes, especially of transuranium elements. When applied to plutonium, the LIS process could result in almost pure plutonium-239 with the by-product containing the remaining isotopes. The by-product stream could be purified further to produce a specific plutonium isotope, such as plutonium-238, which is used for isotopic heat sources. The LIS process also can selectively produce any isotope, including plutonium-241. The reduction of plutonium-241, which is currently used as the isotope to determine levels of plutonium deposited in the lung. While the overall radiation exposures are effectively reduced by the LIS process, the external exposures are reduced more than the internal exposures. Generally, LIS technology is viewed as beneficial in reducing personnel exposures; however, the side effects of the process present some new challenges to the health physicist. 2 refs., 2 tabs