Abstract
This study explored the feasibility to produce 198Au in the Isfahan miniature neutron source reactor (MNSR). To estimate production level, we used the MCNP simulation method, validated through empirical data. Role of different irradiation and cooling periods to maximize the produced yield was also studied. The results of our study showed that after 30 cycles, the maximum production was 812.3 mCi g−1 in the maximum flux and irradiation time. However, after the 15th cycle it reached its maximum production of 90% (740.3 mCi g−1). Also, the role of irradiation and cooling periods in the optimum fuel management was shown. Our results showed that producing 198Au is feasible in MNSRs.
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Acknowledgements
This study was extracted as part of a Master’s thesis by Ms F. Seyfi, MSc student at Islamic Azad university of Arsanjan. We appreciate those who supported us in conducting this study, especially the personnel and management of Isfahan MNSR department. We would like to extend our appreciation to the Research and Technology Deputy of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, always supporting us in the development and application of medical radioisotopes. The authors wish to thank Mr. H. Argasi at the Research Consultation Center (RCC) of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences for his invaluable editorial services.
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Seyfi, F., Soleimani, B., Hosseini, M.A. et al. The feasibility of 198Au production in Isfahan MNSR research reactor through a multi-stage approach. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 316, 435–441 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-018-5810-8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-018-5810-8