BWX Technologies (BWXT), a supplier of nuclear components and fuel to the US government, has acquired Sotera Health’s Nordion medical isotope business to further the former’s work in manufacturing medical isotopes and de-risk its entry into the isotope market.
This acquisition is aimed to help market and launch the company’s isotope product line and future radioisotope based imaging and products.
Natalie Cutler, communications and government relations manager of BWXT told us, “BWXT has previously announced plans to enter the medical radioisotope market with a new, innovative technology, and this acquisition is a foundational step in that direction.”
BWXT announced its movement into isotope manufacturing in May of 2018. The company aimed to harness this capability towards increasing accessibility of medical diagnostic tools for national security non-proliferation objectives.
According to Cutler, BWXT intends to continue investing in the growth of acquired medical isotopes business. All of the locations included in this acquisition will continue normal operations, with additional support to the manufacture of BWXT’s medical isotope product.
“Sotera Health’s Nordion medical isotopes business includes licensed nuclear facility assets, radiochemical and radiopharmaceutical manufacturing experience and a knowledgeable and dedicated professional staff. It is anticipated that this acquisition will streamline BWXT’s entry into the industry while mitigating schedule and expense risks that would otherwise be associated with new facility construction and talent acquisition,” said Cutler.
The acquisition will add 150 trained and experienced personnel, two specialized production centers, and licensed infrastructure.