A New Chapter in Stable Isotope Production

Innovation by A Meras Annos

A Meras Annos is an innovative start-up aiming to produce stable isotopes, particularly carbon isotopes, using cryogenic distillation technologies. Our approach is based on the use of ultra-tall cryogenic columns operating at very low temperatures, which enables:

  • the production of high-purity isotopes;

  • a significantly higher production capacity compared to traditional methods;

  • optimized processes that result in a substantial reduction in energy consumption, especially when compared to multi-column cascade systems.

In today’s industrial landscape, energy efficiency is a strategic parameter for ensuring both sustainability and competitiveness.

The AMA project introduces a major innovation in fractional distillation by adopting a compact configuration of vertical columns housed within a single coldbox, installed inside a mining shaft.

This setup overcomes the structural and operational limitations typical of conventional, sprawling industrial plants.

With this technology, A Meras Annos positions itself as a sustainable and innovative leader in the isotope production sector.

 

Process and Isotopes

At the heart of the project lies a patented process, exclusively licensed worldwide to A Meras Annos, based on the cryogenic distillation of isotopes. The 350-meter-tall distillation columns enable a high degree of isotopic separation while maintaining significantly lower energy consumption.

The facility will initially focus on the production of carbon-13 (13C) and nitrogen-15 (15N), derived respectively from carbon monoxide (CO) and molecular nitrogen (N₂). However, this technology holds great promise and may, in the future, be adapted to produce additional isotopes such as oxygen-17 (17O) and oxygen-18 (18O).

These isotopes have important applications in medical diagnostics, as tracers, in advanced nuclear fuels, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET).

 

The Seruci Site in Sardinia

Production will take place at the strategic site of the Seruci mine in Sardinia, currently undergoing decommissioning. This area offers significant potential for industrial development. The cryogenic distillation column will be housed in one of the four existing mining shafts. AMA has already initiated the authorization process with the Region of Sardinia and the Municipality of Gonnesa for the use of the site.

Technology Advantages

Among all available technologies, cryogenic distillation represents the most advanced solution for stable isotope production, offering:

  • High product purity (>99%);
  • High production efficiency;
  • Industrial scalability.
Market Size and Opportunities
The stable isotope market is rapidly expanding, with significant growth observed in the last five years. Stable isotopes, which are non-radioactive, find applications in a wide range of sectors, including:

  • Pharmaceutical and medical industries;
  • Water and soil management;
  • Environmental and nutritional studies;
  • Forensic science.

The market is valued at approximately 1 billion euros, with sustained growth expected over the next decade. Major players in the specialty gas industry have already expressed interest in the isotopes to be produced at Seruci. Through its investment program, AMA will be able to acquire a significant position in the stable isotope market.

Future Collaborations

Strong prospects exist for collaboration with pharmaceutical companies, aiming to develop an integrated supply chain that starts with isotope production at Seruci. This vision seeks to position Italy as a central hub for the production of non-radioactive stable isotopes.

Our story

A Meras Annos (AMA) was founded with the goal of taking stable isotope production to the next technological level. Established in March 2021, the company takes its name from the Sardinian phrase meaning “long life,” reflecting its commitment to indirectly improving health and well-being through advanced technological solutions.

In just two years, AMA was recognized as an innovative start-up by the Chamber of Commerce of Cagliari-Oristano, thanks to the professional expertise of its founders and consultants involved in the project. In 2023, the company strengthened its position by securing funding from CDP Venture Capital SRC and private investors. These funds will be used to implement an industrial investment, support an ambitious growth plan, establishing AMA as a key player in the stable isotope production sector.

Board of Directors

In December 2023, the Board of Directors, composed of 5 members, was established. In particular, the operational delegations concern:
Francesco Sanna
chairman of the Board of Directors

He is a lawyer authorized to practice before higher courts. He worked on the development of public development policies at national and regional level. He was a member of the board of directors of Simest Spa and Finmeccanica Spa (now Leonardo Spa).

Antonio Martini
CEO and legal representative

He is a mining engineer, he was sole director of Carbosulcis spa between 2015 and 2019. Before and after this role, his career took place mainly in the public sector, as manager of complex national and regional structures in the field of competitiveness, innovation and energy.