Optimization of sedimentation of tungsten on copper substrate for production of ~(186g)Re via ~(186)W(p,n) nuclear reaction: Feasibility of using high current, long irradiation

摘要

Tungsten is recognized as one of the important metals used in cyclotron targets for production of several vital radioisotopes. Adequate adhesion of the prepared targets to its substrate is a significant parameter that makes them optimized for high current beam collisions. The target morphology should be paid special attention as another important parameter. In this work, a rather thick layer of tungsten is deposited on a copper substrate by sedimentation technique to produce ~(186g)Re radionuclide via ~(186)W(p,n) reaction. Consecutive sedimentation experiments are carried out to determine the best suspension solution. The prepared targets are evaluated in morphology by scanning electron microscope. A mixture of 1 g tungsten powder, 250 mg ethyl cellulose and 5 mL acetone is concluded for desirable target adhesion. Irradiation of the targets by 20 μA proton current (15 MeV energy) for 5 h shows that they can withstand the proton beam.