Nuclear science drives significant advancements in fields like medicine, national security, energy, materials, and more. Isotopes play a central role in many of these applications, and FRIB is at the forefront of exploring how rare isotopes not available elsewhere can be harnessed for the benefit of society.

The rare isotopes produced at FRIB have wide-ranging applications across numerous fields, including:

• Medical advancements: Rare isotopes are used for cancer treatments, medical imaging, and monitoring heart and lung functions, improving the precision and safety of medical procedures.
• National security: Techniques based on nuclear science help the Department of Homeland Security detect and prevent the illicit transport of radiological materials and contribute to the nation’s stockpile stewardship mission.
• Forensic science: Radioisotopes help date objects and trace crime scene evidence to specific locations.
• Advanced microelectronics: FRIB’s chip-testing facility supports the development of next-generation semiconductor devices for industries like commercial spaceflight, 5G wireless, and autonomous vehicles.

With the ability to produce up to 80 percent of isotopes predicted to exist, scientists at FRIB have the opportunity to advance the applications of isotopes.