One of the main projects at OCL is the study of level densities and radiative strength functions. These quantities are important for the understanding of thermodynamic and electromagnetic properties of the atomic nucleus. Also these studies are essential for the understanding of stellar evolution, as well as accelerator-driven transmutation of nuclear waste.
In parallel with basic nuclear physics and chemistry research, the cyclotron is used for the production of radioactive isotopes.
Several groups have taken advantage of this instrument in the field of nuclear medicine. Today there is an exponential growth in the use of radioactive isotopes in medicine. The main user is the Norwegian Radium Hospital in Oslo, where radioactive 18F is produced for positron emission tomography (PET). The cyclotron can also produce 211At, 205Bi and certain other isotopes for future cancer therapy.
Below you see an out-lay of the cyclotron with target stations.