Development of Solid State Cell Target for Isotope Irradiation Production in Research Reactor

To utilize research reactors for the irradiation production of radioisotopes, a cell target suitable for irradiating nickel and neptunium targets is developed, along with the solid-state irradiation technology for isotope production in research reactors. A casing type, double-layer inner and outer cooled target tube structure for the target is adopted, multiple solid annular pellets are loaded in the closed cavity of the target tube, and uniform cooling water gaps are set inside and outside of the target tube, significantly improving the cooling efficiency of pellets and isotope yield. During the development process, the thermal hydraulic behavior and stress of the target were analyzed and evaluated. Out-of-pile hydraulic scouring test of the simulated target was carried out, while in-pile irradiation test on the target loaded with actual pellets was conducted. The test results demonstrate that the developed target satisfies the requirement of safe irradiation production for radioactive isotope in the research reactor.