NUCLEAR CHEMISTRY  DIVISION

Introduction

Nuclear Chemistry Division (NCD) is one of the largest Divisions of PINSTECH comprising five major groups, namely Analytical Chemistry, Radioisotope Production, Radiochemical Separation, Radio & Nuclear Chemistry, and Radiation Chemistry. Nuclear Chemistry Division has gained experience in the characterization of reactor grade and high purity materials by using advanced analytical techniques and it is dealing with environmental and health related problems. The Division is supplying radiopharmaceuticals, sealed radioactive sources, and diagnostic kits to various users. Polymer processing laboratory has expertise in processing of special polymers for use in cable and wire insulation. Formulations for materials which are used in the preparation of vials for sterilization by radiation have been developed.

1. Analytical Chemistry

• Characterization of reactor and high purity materials using advanced analytical techniques like neutron activation analysis, atomic adsorption, emission and x-ray fluorescence spectrometry.

• Studies on geochemical and biological materials and their quality assurance by nuclear techniques. Measurement of nuclear cross-sections of middle mass nuclides.
• Trace element studies on environmental and health related materials. 
• Monitoring of environmental carcinogens and estimation of steroid adulteration in drugs. Service facilities to various departments within and outside PAEC.  

Analytical Facilities

2. Radioisotope Production

• Production and supply of radioisotopes to medical centers. Preparation of radiopharmaceuticals and biosynthetic radioactive compounds.

• Designing and fabrication of chemical processing hot cells.
• Quality control of radioactive products including radionuclides.
• Synthesis of precursors for radiopharmaceuticals production.

Production of Radioisotopes & Radiopharmaceuticals

3. Radiochemical Separation

• Group chemical separations using different extraction systems.

• Isotopic separation by electrochemical exchange.
• Electrolytic reduction of uranium and its speculation.  

• Separation of radioactive descendants and various recaleitrants.

Setup of Alpha Spectrometry

Gross gamma counter

4. Radio & Nuclear Chemistry

• Adsorption behavior and removal of radionuclides, fission products and toxic elements from nuclear and industrial effluents using solid substances like minerals, metal oxide surfaces, foam and agricultural wastes.

• Exploitation of chromogenic reagents for the determination of trace elements.
• Synthesis and applications of xerogel in separations. 
• Separation of radioactive parent-daughter using different techniques.

Hitachi-557 double wavelength / double beam Spectrophotometer

5. Radiation Chemistry

• Gamma sterilization of various diagnostic kits and other medical products for medical centers. 

• The development of instant dosimeter for gamma irradiation using dyes.Irradiation of cable and wire insulation and development of new formulation.

Labo Press (Toyo Seiki) for hot  pressing of polymer admixtures.  ( 200oC & Pressure 3-8 kg/cm2)

Haake Mixer Brabender  type for mixing of polymer

Scientific Glass Blowing

Glass blowing workshop is equipped with lathe, grinding and glass cutting machine, stain viewer, bench work torches, annealing ovens, etc. Different types of glass (pyrex) apparatus can be fabricated and repaired including standard, bulb, double and coil condensers, cold trap, kjeldahl and liquid air traps, manometers, mercury diffusion pumps, high vacuum lines, dewar flask, metal to glass sealing, laser tubes, etc.