Compact Nuclear Reactors for Cancer Detection: A Startup's Breakthrough

Rising Cancer Rates Drive Demand for Medical Isotopes

Globally, and particularly in Western nations, the incidence of cancer is increasing, largely attributable to factors like lifestyle choices and environmental pollutants. Consequently, the demand for nuclear isotopes utilized in cancer detection within medical settings is also growing. However, many nuclear reactors constructed during the 1970s and 1980s are slated for decommissioning, leading to a scarcity and increased cost of these essential materials.

A startup company based in Bristol, U.K., Astral Systems, is aiming to address this challenge by employing a novel and groundbreaking technology to boost the production of these vital isotopes.

Astral Systems and Multistate Fusion Technology

Co-founded by Talmon Firestone and Dr. Tom Wallace-Smith, Astral Systems utilizes multistate fusion (MSF) technology within its “compact reactors” to enhance the supply of nuclear isotopes crucial for modern medical diagnostics. Remarkably, these reactors are small enough to be accommodated on a standard desk.

The company has successfully secured over £4.5 million in investment, with Austria-based venture capital firm Speedinvest and U.K.-based Playfair leading the funding round.

A More Efficient and Cost-Effective Approach

Astral Systems asserts that its methodology will facilitate the commercialization of MSF technology, achieving superior performance alongside increased efficiency and reduced costs compared to conventional reactor designs.

The core of their innovation lies in lattice confinement fusion (LCF), a concept originally discovered by NASA. This technique allows for the attainment of solid-state fuel densities that are 400 million times greater than those typically achievable.

Potential Beyond Cancer Detection

Building upon prior NASA research, Astral Systems also suggests that its platform could unlock further applications, including the development of secure hybrid nuclear energy sources, advancements in space exploration, and solutions for the industrial and security sectors.

Decentralized Production and Reduced Reliance

Dr. Tom Wallace-Smith, Astral’s co-founder and CTO, explained to TechCrunch that the industry has historically faced supply constraints due to its dependence on centralized reactors.

“Our vision is to deploy these reactors in industrial facilities or even within hospitals and production centers,” he stated. “This would enable on-site production of the necessary drugs, diminishing the reliance on these centralized production hubs.”

A Technological Advantage

Dr. Wallace-Smith believes that competitors are hampered by existing technological limitations. “Many alternative approaches are rooted in linear, accelerated technology. We, however, are integrating cutting-edge 2020 physics into a well-established core architecture, offering substantial potential for performance improvements. We are only beginning to explore the full capabilities of this system.”

Investor Confidence

Rick Hao, a partner at Speedinvest, commented: “Astral Systems embodies the best of U.K. deeptech innovation. The company is presenting a novel approach to nuclear fusion that directly addresses critical needs in the medical, industrial, and energy sectors.”

Early Revenue Generation

Astral Systems has already established three commercial fusion facilities and is currently generating revenue.

Investment Details

The investment round also saw participation from angel investors, including Oliver Buck, founder of ITM Isotope Technologies, and Pete Hutton, former president of Product Group at ARM.