Simple method for transportation and storage of rare earths or similar isotopic materials in vacuum or inert gas

The rare earth isotopes are mostly delivered in the form of oxides. Sometimes, after the reduction procedure, not all metal is used immediately and often excess of the rolled foil or the scraps is left over. The remains may be used in future in case they are properly preserved. In order to avoid oxidation, a method of storage in quartz tube under vacuum is described. One can apply the similar solution for transportation of sensitive targets. This paper describes the procedure and the equipment for sealing, storage or transportation of rare-earth metal foils in vacuum or inert-gas atmosphere. The described solution is appropriate for isotopes, which can be exposed to air for a short time without significant oxidation damage. The procedure can also be applied for storage in low-pressure inert-gas atmosphere like argon (below atmospheric pressure).