AEOI details nuclear technology applications in agriculture, water, healthcare
The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) is seeking to expand the use of nuclear technology in water and soil management, agriculture and healthcare, with applications ranging from improving crop yields and shelf life to supplying medical equipment, AEOI chief Mohammad Eslami said on Monday.
Eslami made the remarks on the sidelines of an exhibition of Iran's peaceful nuclear achievements at the holy shrine of Hazrat Abdol-Azim al-Hasani in Shahr-e Rey, south of Tehran, IRNA reported.
"The use of nuclear technology to improve water and soil quality, increase the productivity and shelf life of agricultural products, and supply equipment needed in the healthcare sector is on the agenda," Eslami said.
"Given the growing needs of the public and various sectors of the country, nuclear technology can play a role in addressing existing problems and challenges," he added.
Referring to the country's water and soil challenges, Eslami said Iran needed to reassess how these resources were consumed and their quality. He said measures to improve the quality and safety of these resources were being pursued.
"The use of nuclear technology in agriculture increases productivity and extends the shelf life of products, making it possible to store them for longer periods without exposure to pests," he said.
On healthcare applications, Eslami said nuclear technology could be used to irradiate disposable products, equipment and other items used in healthcare processes.
He described Iran's nuclear industry as an integrated chain extending from the initial stages of production to end use by consumers.
"The chain begins at the mine and extends all the way to the point of consumption and use by people in their homes. Today, the nuclear industry is serving the public," he said.
The exhibition was inaugurated on Monday at a hall of the Hazrat Abdol-Azim al-Hasani shrine, with Eslami in attendance.
He said exhibitions showcasing peaceful nuclear achievements were intended to promote the technology and familiarize different segments of society with its applications.
Such events provide an opportunity for the public to learn firsthand about achievements made for their benefit and put at the service of society, he added.