Marathon Fusion reports gold transmutation and work on medical isotopes

Marathon Fusion says it has converted mercury into stable gold using neutrons from a fusion reaction, according to the supplied Weekly Dose of Optimism. The account describes an experimental demonstration, rather than a commercially meaningful supply of gold.

The proposed process uses fast neutrons to transform mercury-198 into mercury-197, which subsequently decays into gold. The company also reportedly says it has started making copper-64 and copper-67, isotopes used in cancer imaging and targeted radiotherapy.

Medical-isotope production could offer a more immediate practical application than gold production. However, making an isotope is different from establishing reliable, approved supply for patient care. Production quantities, independent measurements and regulatory status need verification.

Sources

• Weekly Dose of Optimism #216, Packy McCormick; company claims