An optimized method for production of 240Am via the 240Pu(d,2n)240Am reaction is reported. The optimized method produced 7.94 × 108 ± 7% atoms 240Am/mg 240Pu/µA-h. The yield and purity of the products from the optimized method are evaluated in context of the intended application to produce material to measure the cross-section for the 240Am(n,f) reaction. The presented method is also compared with other production methods available in the literature.
Keywords—240Am production, deuteron-induced reactions, cross-section, target preparation, post-irradiation purification
Abbreviations
GEA—Gamma Energy Analysis
Published: November 18, 2024
Citation
Morrison E.C., J.M. Bowen, B.D. Pierson, L.R. Greenwood, V.T. Woods, Z.S. Finch, and A.C. Edwards, et al. 2024.Improved production and purification of 240Am by deuteron-induced activation of 240Pu target.Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research. Section B: Beam Interactions with Materials and Atoms 553, no. _:Art. No. 165408.PNNL-SA-156505.doi:10.1016/j.nimb.2024.165408