Highlights 2020
Annual report of SCK CEN
Science breaks patterns
Breaking patterns enables innovation
Coronavirus is constantly challenging us to question existing systems and patterns. However, that's not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, that's precisely where the seeds of innovation lie. And that comes as no surprise to us, as scientists. Breaking patterns enables innovation.
Many of our studies and projects are shaking up standards, including our own, and we therefore want to share them with you. This annual report compiles the 'seeds of innovation' that we planted in 2020 or that thoroughly 'took root' in that same year.
Highlights
Operation
• SCK CEN not defeated by coronavirus •
• SCK CEN replaces extinguisher and drinking water network •
Health
• BR2 produces record quantities of medical radioisotopes •
• Lutetium-177: towards personalised medicine •
• From pain relief to cancer treatment •
• SCK CEN grows miniature brains •
Safety and society
• SCK CEN ensures safety of nuclear innovations •
• SCK CEN adds a new dimension to nuclear research •
• New approach streamlines decommissioning process •
Technology
• MYRRHA team celebrates one milestone after another •
• SCK CEN decomposes atoms •
• MYRRHA reactor vessel slims down •
Key figures
• Online learning takes off •
• SCK CEN in key figures •
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NURA
With NURA, SCK CEN wants to discover the untapped potential of radioisotopes, both independently and as a Contract Research Organisation (CRO). In 2020, SCK CEN installed a MILabs U-SPECT CT scanner thanks to which cancer research can truly get started.
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MYRRHA
With the research infrastructure MYRRHA, SCK CEN aims to tackle a broad range of social challenges. In 2020, the research centre was able to tick off several milestones in the construction of MYRRHA.
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RECUMO
In the RECUMO facility, the research centre will purify the radioactive residues resulting from the production of medical radioisotopes. In 2020, our research centre has submitted a request to extend an existing nuclear facility on our site.
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