Risk Management of a Fusion Facility: Radiation Protection and Safety Integrated Approach for the Sorgentina-RF Project

The Sorgentina-RF project will use fusion neutrons to produce Mo-99, a precursor of Tc-99m, by irradiating natural molybdenum. Mo-99 is produced by means of the inelastic reaction Mo-100(n, 2n)Mo-99 on Mo-100, which is an isotope of natural Mo. From a functional point of view, the project consists of two parts: an irradiation neutron source at 14 MeV and a radiochemistry facility dedicated to the extraction of Mo-99 from the solid sample irradiated by the neutron source. Given the degree of complexity of such a facility, the risk management strategy is based on an integrated approach that combines the engineering method of safety with that of radiation protection. Therefore, design issues were studied and systems were planned according to both radiation protection and safety criteria already in the preliminary phase, allowing a general strengthening of the safety of the plant. This work discusses the preventive analysis and the related activities to identify the ways in which potential exposures to radiation may occur. In particular, the preliminary safety analysis is presented for the innovative rotating target, developed for the project, and, accordingly, some specific technical solutions are given to refine the initial design of the facility.