Progress of energy-related radiochemistry and radionuclide production in the Republic of Korea

Abstract

The field of radiochemistry in the Republic of Korea has expanded greatly over the last three decades to meet the rapid growth of technological demands in various areas such as nuclear energy and nuclear technologies for human health and environmental protection. Major research activities, which were initially centered at the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI), have gradually spread to major universities and the commercial sector. In this review, progress and recent research trends in nuclear and radiochemistry in Korea are summarized. The main research outcomes achieved by KAERI scientists are highlighted, with emphasis on basic actinide chemistry in nuclear fuel cycles, the radioanalytical chemistry of various radionuclides from radioactive waste and the environment, and medical radionuclide production. In addition, recent efforts to promote radiochemical education and future perspectives are briefly outlined.