Isotope Generator

Isotope generators (ICG) are not only sources of low-energy (up to 2 MeV) ionizing radiation at a fixed wavelength, but also a source of biologically active substances - isomers of iodine and rare earth elements. The latter are widely used in medicine (for example, in radiation therapy of tumors - for further examination of such patients, increasing accuracy, more effective treatment), in ecology (for detecting contaminated areas) and other industries where it is necessary to study the products of nuclear reactions. However, the main advantages of using ICG are low economic costs for their production and operation, high reliability, ease of use and ease of transportation.

Isotope generators are complex devices designed to produce radioisotopes such as uranium-235. These devices are expensive and require special attention during operation. Below is an overview of the designs and operating principles of such devices:

Isotope generators consist of a large number of chambers containing a reaction material such as zirconium or uranium. Nuclear fusion occurs inside the chambers, which leads to the creation of new nuclear isotopes. These isotopes are then irradiated with neutrons, causing them to break down into lighter molecules. Some isotopes can be used in power generation, while others can be used for scientific purposes.

One of the most common types of isotope generators is breeder reactors. They are closed systems in which rapid neutron capture first occurs, after which these neutrons interact with uranium-238 nuclei, which are converted into plutonium-239 and other derivative isotopes. This process is the most efficient way to produce new atomic particles.

Another type of device used to make radioactive substances is ionization generators. They work based on the inertial charge separation method. The essence of the process is that heavy particles reach a certain speed and then are divided into 2 beams at different ends of the generation. The passage of these two beams through different layers of materials results in the release of new products from them.