225-Ac and 223-Ra Production via 800 MeV Proton Irradiation of Natural Thorium Target

TL;DR

This study measures cross sections for producing actinium and radium isotopes via 800 MeV proton irradiation of natural thorium, demonstrating the viability of accelerator-based production methods.

Contribution

First experimental cross section data for 223,225-Ra, 227-Ac, and 227-Th from proton-irradiated natural thorium, with comparison to theoretical models.

Findings

Experimental cross sections measured at 800 MeV.

Theoretical predictions agree within a factor of two.

Accelerator-based production of 225-Ac and 223-Ra is feasible.

Abstract

Cross sections for the formation of 225,227-Ac, 223,225-Ra, and 227-Th via the proton bombardment of natural thorium targets were measured at a nominal proton energy of 800 MeV. No earlier experimental cross section data for the production of 223,225-Ra, 227-Ac and 227-Th by this method were found in the literature. A comparison of theoretical predictions with the experimental data shows agreement within a factor of two. Results indicate that accelerator-based production of 225-Ac and 223-Ra is a viable production method.