Financial feasibility of optimizing the GA Siwabessy reactor-utilization for enhanced radioisotope production

Abstract

The GA Siwabessy multipurpose reactor (RSG-GAS) is a strategic facility in Indonesia, that supports various research applications and medical treatments by producing radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals. As the demand for critical isotopes such as I-131, Mo-99, and Ir-192 continues to grow, there is a pressing need to enhance the reactor’s capabilities to meet these requirements efficiently. This research focuses on optimizing the reactor’s utilization by prioritizing its role in isotope production and addressing operational and strategic challenges. A systematic cost-benefit analysis framework is developed to evaluate the financial feasibility of this optimization. The framework incorporates comprehensive cost components, including revitalization investments and operational expenses, while benefits are assessed in terms of increased isotope production, and economic returns. Four reactor’s irradiation channel utilization are analyzed at 15 MW and 20 MW, spanning single-product and multi-product scenarios. Results indicate that the current operational condition is financially unsustainable, while the proposed optimization scenario offer significant economic benefit. Among the configurations, dedicated I-131 production (Option 1) yields the highest financial returns, while the multi-product scenario (Option 4) balances profitability with diverse national needs. This research underscores the strategic importance of reactor revitalization in achieving Indonesia’s long-term independence in nuclear medicine and industrial applications.