New cross section data for production of the therapeutic radionuclides 64Cu, 67Cu, 140Nd and 192Ir

The use of radionuclides in internal radiotherapy is gaining significance. In this regard, radionuclides emitting α-particles, low-energy β-radiation, or conversion and Auger electrons are needed for different applications. We investigated the formation of 64Cu, 67Cu, 140Nd and 192Ir via novel routes. The radionuclide 64Cu (T1/2 =12.7 h, Eβ- = 0.6 MeV, Eβ+ = 0.7 MeV) is interesting because of its suitable half-life and low energy β-radiation. It has the extra advantage of in-vivo detection possibility via positron emission tomography (PET). 67Cu (T1/2 =61.9 h, Eβ- = 0.6 MeV) is also a nuclide of interest for therapy because of its suitable radiation and half-life. The radionuclide 140Nd (T1/2 =3.37 d, 100% EC, no γ-radiation) is almost a pure Auger-electron emitter. The available database for its production is rather weak. The radionuclide 192Ir (T1/2 = 78.83 d, Eβ- = 0.7 MeV) is well established in therapy. However, since it is commonly produced in a reactor, it is obtained with low specific activity. (orig.)