Successful deployment and commissioning of the GE PETtrace cyclotron at the institute of nuclear medical physics: Challenges, solutions, and operational insights

The GE PETtrace 16.5 MeV cyclotron has been successfully installed and commissioned at the Institute of Nuclear Medical Physics (INMP), Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, creating a modern facility for producing short-lived positron-emitting radionuclides on-site. This reduces reliance on imported radiopharmaceuticals and minimizes decay-related losses, ensuring timely availability for clinical and research purposes. The cyclotron is housed in a specially designed underground vault, protected by 2.4-meter-thick reinforced concrete walls and lead-paraffin shielding, fully meeting IAEA radiation safety standards. Essential supporting systems, including HEPA-filtered ventilation, high-vacuum systems, chilled water circulation, and backup power, maintain safe and GMP-compliant operational conditions. Commissioning included precise mechanical alignment, RF tuning, magnet calibration, and software integration, all tested through dry runs and beam trials to achieve stable extraction and efficient target irradiation. Radiation monitoring confirmed that external exposure levels are well below permissible limits, and neutron shielding effectively controls vault leakage. The facility now enables reliable production of F-18, C-11, N-13, O-15, and Ga-68 isotopes, strengthening Bangladesh’s capacity in nuclear medicine, radiopharmaceutical research, molecular imaging, and advanced cancer diagnosis and treatment.