Production of 38K via the 38Ar(p, n)-process at a small cyclotron

Abstract

The excitation function of the 38Ar(p, n) 38K reaction was measured from threshold up to 18 MeV by the activation technique using isotopically enriched 38Ar as target gas. Differential and integral yields of 38K were calculated. The optimum energy range for production was found to be E p = 16 → 12 MeV, the 38K yield at saturation amounting to 21 mCi (777 MBq)/μA. Experimental thick target yields of 38K were determined under high current production conditions using natAr and enriched 38Ar as target gases. The 38Ar(p, n) 38K process is ideally suited for production of 38K at a small cyclotron.