A New Chapter in 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. This approach relies on the use of extremely tall cryogenic columns operating at low temperatures, enabling:

  • The production of high-purity isotopes;
  • Significantly higher production capacity compared to traditional methods;
  • Energy consumption reduced by 10 times.

A distinctive feature of the process is the integration of a heat recovery system, which further improves energy efficiency and reduces operating costs. This technology positions the company as an innovative and sustainable leader in the sector.

Process and Isotopes

At the core of the project lies a patented process, for which A Meras Annos holds the exclusive global license. This process is based on cryogenic distillation of isotopes. The 350-meter-high distillation columns enable a high degree of isotopic separation with significantly lower energy consumption. The facility will focus on producing isotopes such as:

  • Carbon-13 (13C), derived from carbon monoxide (CO);
  • Nitrogen-15 (15N), extracted from molecular nitrogen (N₂);
  • Oxygen-17 and Oxygen-18 (17O and 18O).

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

The Seruci Site in Sardinia

Production will take place at the strategic site of the decommissioned Seruci mine in Sardinia, an area with significant potential for industrial development. The cryogenic distillation column will be housed in one of the four existing mining shafts. AMA has already initiated authorization requests with the Sardinia Region and the Municipality of Gonnesa for site utilization.

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

Francesco 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
Antonio 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.

Socetary References

A MERAS ANNOS S.R.L.

Via Grazia Deledda 3, Gonnesa (SU)
P.IVA/C.F. 03951310923 N. REA CA-351504

pec: amerasannos@pec.it

Start up innovativa
Capitale Sociale €20.498,61, versato €10.539,42