Supporting the future of nuclear medicine in the Netherlands

Rising demand for nuclear medicine

Demand for nuclear medicine is growing as new therapies are developed, and access is increased around the world.

The global supply of isotopes necessary for nuclear medicine is at risk with five of the six main isotope producing reactors halting production in the next two decades.

PALLAS securing future isotope supply

The new PALLAS-reactor will replace the High Flux Reactor located in Petten, Netherlands. The facility currently supplies around 30 percent of global isotope demand and is operated by the Nuclear Research and Consultancy Group (NRG) PALLAS. The High Flux Reactor will be taken out of service as soon as the PALLAS reactor has taken over isotope production. The new reactor will also be used for research, development, and innovation in support of the energy transition.

NRG PALLAS is responsible for the realisation of the PALLAS-reactor and processing facilities and is being funded by the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport.

Expert oversight from Mott MacDonald

We’re advising the Dutch Ministry in its role as financier of the PALLAS-programme and in its future role as shareholder. Our team has undertaken in-depth technical review of the plans to build the new reactor by 2032, including monitoring of the programme's progress, site visits and schedule, budget, risk and regulatory compliance.

First construction activities at site have now commenced. Our team will continue to offer technical advice during construction, commissioning and ramp-up through to the start of the facility’s commercial operation in 2032.