Six problems with the 6-day Curie and a solution

Abstract

In this review the major shortfalls of the unit of sale for the Mo-99 supply chain—the 6-day Curie—are identified and discussed. These include its status as an inconsistent, out-dated, non-SI unit, and its use causing propagation of inefficient logistics within the Mo-99 supply chain. An alternative Mo-99 unit of sale is proposed: Becquerels time-stamped at the Port of Despatch. Adoption of the new unit is proposed as a catalyst in the move away from the current economically unsustainable, Mo-99 supply chain in favour of simplicity, self-regulation, transparency, efficiency, and full-cost recovery in line with High-Level Group for the Security of Supply of Medical Radioisotopes recommendations. © 2020 Springer Nature Switzerland AG