They also are used in the production of radio pharmaceuticals, and the development of treatments such as boron neutron capture therapy now being evaluated for shrinking cancerous tumors. Other uses are the transmutation of semiconductors for high power electronic equipment, the determination of structural integrity for aerospace components, and the enhancement of gemstones. They also are used to train and educate people in engineering and science. In contrast to commercial nuclear power facilities, most non-power reactors are in urban areas, the majority on university campuses. All of them have area radiation monitors to measure radiation levels in the reactor room and in other areas.
Larger facilities monitor particulate and gaseous releases to the environment.
All have protection systems that will shut down the reactor when radiation levels exceed preset limits. The reactors are housed in rooms or buildings that have a dedicated ventilation system. Some have confinements that maintain a negative pressure with respect to the surroundings, ensuring that any release of radiation will remain confined to the room. Others have a containment that can control potential high-pressure conditions. Non-power reactor control rooms and experimental facilities are usually in the confinement or containment.