Cyclotron Vault Decommissioning

Description

Cardiff University houses a cyclotron used in the production of medical radioisotopes for research and clinical applications. <br /><br />The University is progressing plans to decommission the existing cyclotron installation and associated infrastructure. This will include: <br /><br />- Removal of the cyclotron and associated systems <br />- Decommissioning of activated components of the cyclotron<br />- Removal of activated structural elements within the vault <br /><br />The cyclotron vault is a heavily shielded structure designed to contain ionising radiation generated during operation. As part of its original design, internal wall structures were constructed as sacrificial layers, intended to absorb radiation during operation and facilitate their removal at end of life. <br /><br />These sacrificial walls will require controlled removal and appropriate disposal as part of the decommissioning process. The works will therefore include the removal of activated walls within the vault, alongside the removal of the cyclotron and associated activated components. <br /><br />These works represent a specialist radiological decommissioning project requiring appropriate expertise in radiation safety, dismantling, structural removal, and compliant handling and disposal of activated materials.<br /><br />The University is seeking expressions of interest from organisations with experience in one or more of the following areas: <br /><br />- Radiological decommissioning of specialist facilities <br />- Cyclotron or medical isotope production facility decommissioning <br />- Removal and disposal of activated materials, including structural elements <br />- Nuclear or radiological engineering and dismantling <br />- Radioactive waste handling, treatment, and disposal <br /><br />Through this pre-market engagement, the University is seeking feedback to support the development of a future procurement, including: <br />- Refinement of the technical specification <br />- Development of appropriate evaluation criteria <br />- Understanding of delivery and contracting models (e.g. single contractor or consortium approach)<br />- Identification of key risks, constraints, and regulatory considerations <br />- Indicative programme durations and mobilisation requirements <br /><br />No preferred delivery model has been selected at this stage. <br /><br />The University is not currently seeking bids or formal proposals, but rather information and feedback to support procurement development. <br /><br />Participation in this pre-market engagement does not constitute, and should not be interpreted as, a commitment to procure or enter into any contractual arrangement.