225Ac and 223Ra production via 800 MeV proton irradiation of natural thorium targets

Cross sections for the formation of 225,227Ac, 223,225Ra, and 227Th via the proton bombardment of natural thorium targets were measured at a nominal proton energy of 800 MeV. No earlier experimental cross section data for the production of 223,225Ra, 227Ac and 227Th by this method were found in the literature. A comparison of theoretical predictions with the experimental data shows agreement within a factor of two. Results indicate that accelerator-based production of 225Ac and 223Ra is a viable production method.

► Natural thorium targets were irradiated with protons at a nominal 800 MeV. ► 225,227Ac, 223,225Ra, and 227Th production cross sections were measured. ► First measurement of 227Ac, 223,225Ra, and 227Th cross sections at 800 MeV. ► Accelerator-based production of 225Ac and 223Ra is a viable production method.