Monte Carlo estimation of radiation fields and radio activations in the 64Ni solid target irradiation for 64Cu production and its validation with experimental findings

Abstract

64Cu is an emerging theranostic radioisotope which is generating interest in the field of PET imaging and planning of therapy. A prototype solid target is being designed for producing 64Cu at RMC, BARC. This study evaluates radiation safety aspects involved in the use of the new solid target using FLUKA Monte Carlo code. The radiological hazards are quantified during the production of 64Cu and further handling of the target assembly for post irradiation processing. Analysis of ambient dose equivalent rates from the target assembly shows that during the sufficient quantity of 64Cu production, radiation fields outside the cyclotron vault at RMC BARC are below the allowed limit. The studies also confirm that the 4 h decay after the end of bombardment is suitable for post irradiation handling of the target.