On December 9, 2024, the National Institute of Science, Technology and Innovation (NISTI) in collaboration with the Regional Cooperative Agreement Regional Office (RCARO) and Office of Radiological Security of National Nuclear Security Administration of the US Department of Energy, hosted a seminar on awareness raising and applications of multi-purpose e-beam/x-ray facilities in Cambodia.

Presided over by Mr. Hem Vanndy, Minister of Industry, Science, Technology & Innovation, the seminar gathered a diverse group of experts and participants from ministries-institutions, national hospitals, academia and private enterprises to learn about the practical and safe applications and benefits of these technologies. It also served as a platform for collaboration, bridging the gap between innovation and practical application of the e-beam/X-ray technologies for societal benefit.

E-beam and X-ray technologies utilize ionizing radiation generated by electricity for various applications in multiple sectors.

“These technologies have far-reaching applications across many various sectors, and of course, it is all for civilian purpose. Whether it is about sterilizing medical equipment, to improving food safety, or advancing material processing, the potential of E-beam and X-ray facilities is both diverse and transformative,” Minister Vanndy said.

The seminar aimed to enhance public awareness and understanding of E-beam and X-ray technologies by emphasizing their widespread benefits, strengthening industrial competitiveness by promoting the integration of these technologies to boost efficiency and product quality, and enhancing global competitiveness of Cambodian products. Additionally, it addressed sustainability by highlighting eco-friendly applications of E-beam and X-ray technologies in waste management and material recycling, responding to increasing environmental concerns.

“It is essential that we address misconceptions around food irradiation to reassure the public that strict safety protocols and regulations are in place to ensure its role in food safety,” Minister Vanndy added.

This awareness raising seminar marked a key step toward the successful adoption of E-beam and X-ray facilities in the country.