Low-cost target system for neutron activation using a medical cyclotron. Application to the non-destructive analysis of gold and silver

Michael Campbell; Adrianna Tikka

doi:10.1016/j.apradiso.2022.110117

Low-cost target system for neutron activation using a medical cyclotron. Application to the non-destructive analysis of gold and silver

Appl Radiat Isot. 2022 Jun:184:110117. doi: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2022.110117. Epub 2022 Jan 20.

Authors

Michael Campbell¹, Adrianna Tikka²

Affiliations

¹ Lakehead University, Department of Chemistry, 955 Oliver Rd, Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 5E1, Canada; Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute, 1040 Oliver Rd, Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 5E1, Canada. Electronic address: http://mike.campbell@lakeheadu.ca.
² Lakehead University, Department of Chemistry, 955 Oliver Rd, Thunder Bay, ON, P7B 5E1, Canada.

PMID: 35272232
DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2022.110117

Abstract

A low cost and easily implemented target system for neutron activation was developed that takes advantage of the neutron flux produced as a by-product during the cyclotron production of medical isotopes. Samples are placed in close proximity to an ¹⁸O(p,n)¹⁸F target on a cyclotron operating between 18 and 22 MeV for irradiation. Analysis of the samples by gamma spectroscopy shows that activation is proportional to the neutron exposure, and the mass of the element present in the sample.

Keywords: Analysis; Cyclotron; Gamma spectroscopy; Medical isotopes; Neutron activation; PET; Target system.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Cyclotrons*
Gamma Rays
Gold*
Neutrons
Silver

Substances

Silver
Gold