More than 15,000 accelerators are in use around the world. More than 97% of accelerators are used in commercial applications, such as the creation of ceramics, insulators, and plastics. Accelerators of many different designs have been developed. Some common accelerator applications include: • Diagnosing and treating cancer • Locating oil and minerals in the earth • Processing semiconductor chips for computers • Sterilizing medical equipment and food products • Determining the age of materials through radiocarbon dating