Estimation of cyclotron–based ¹⁶¹Tb production yields via ¹⁶⁰Gd(d, n)¹⁶¹Tb nuclear reaction

Abstract

Theoretical yield of cyclotron-based production route for 161Tb isotope using enriched oxide target, relying on the nuclear reaction 160Gd (d, n)161Tb, is calculated. The yield of 161Tb and radioactive impurities (160Tb and 161Gd) 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 preferable in such production line, since further increase of energy (over 10-12 MeV) leads to cross section decrease for the targeted isotope and the yield curve slightly flattens, and is yet achievable for existing cyclotrons. It is concluded that evaluated production route cannot produce carrier-free 161Tb under considered conditions. To obtain results on stopping power and particle range SRIM software was used.