Расчётный выход Tb-161 на циклотроне при наработке с использованием ядерной реакции Gd-160(d, n)Tb-161

Abstract

Isotopes of terbium, including Tb-161, are promising family of nuclear isotopes to be used in nuclear imaging and therapy. However, production of Tb-161 is performed by neutron irradiation of gadolinium targets in nuclear reactor, which is inconvenient method for clinical settings. In the present work yields of cyclotron-based production route for Tb-161 isotope, relying on the nuclear reaction Gd-161(d, n)Tb-161, are calculated. Yield of Tb-161 and possible radioactive impurities is calculated for range of initial deuteron energies up to 30 MeV, as well as suitable target thickness for each of the energies. Initial particle energy of 20 MeV can be considered as preferable in such production route, ensuring production of 27 MBq after eight half-live periods of irradiation by a 150 μΑ beam, purer product and is yet achievable for existing cyclotrons. It is concluded that evaluated production route cannot produce carrier-free Tb-161 under considered conditions