Characteristics of Irradiation Production of Radioisotope in an Ultra-High Flux Research Reactor

Abstract Radioisotopes are widely used in industry, agriculture, healthcare, and other fields, they are important basic materials for nuclear science and technology. The research reactor scheme designed by our institute is characterized by high neutron flux, flexible rector core layout, strong irradiation capability, and convenient operation. It has important applications in nuclear fuel and material irradiation test, radioisotope production, neutron science research, etc. By arranging irradiation targets in the thermal irradiation channels of this reactor to produce radioisotopes, it is expected to obtain satisfactory radioisotope yield. This paper analyzes the characteristics of radioisotope production with the high flux reactor, and the productions of rare isotopes, medical isotopes and industrial isotopes are considered. With the relatively high thermal neutron flux, the target irradiation period could be shortened and the specific activity would be improved. Based on the characteristics of radioisotope conversion, a reasonable arrangement scheme for irradiation targets will help to improve the neutron utilization and isotope production.