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Abstract

The method according to the invention is accomplished via neutrons produced in a nuclear reactor and moderated to thermal energy level in such a way that a target to be irradiated can also be arranged outside of the reactor shell, within a cassette and/or a container suitable for this purpose. This solution can remarkably increase the production capacity, but can be applied for irradiation channels as well. The disclosure teaches the production of lanthanides and platinum metals, however, other species, e.g. Re, can also be produced. In the technological process the target (mother element) is commercially less valuable than the product (daughter element) prepared therefrom via (n, γ) nuclear reaction. The product—practically the alloy of the mother element and daughter element(s)—can be fully separated into its constituents, element by element, by means of prior art techniques, and can be processed. The thus obtained product, after retention (that is, after normalizing the radiation level), can be made use of. The exemplified daughter elements are Pm, Eu, Tm, Lu; and Rh, Os; and Re. When Os is produced, Re takes the role of the mother element. In certain products other daughter elements also form, such as e.g. Tc, as it is discussed in the specification.

First Claim