14 MeV neutron generators for radionuclide production

The use of 14 MeV neutron generators for radionuclide production is discussed. The 14 MeV neutron generator is described and tables of some short-lived radioisotopes which can be produced by (n,p), (n,α) and (n, 2n) reactions are given. An estimate of the capital costs of a sealed tube 14 MeV generator with output of 1011 neutrons/s and its annual operating costs is compared to those of typical middle-sized cyclotrons currently used for radioisotope production. Simultaneous use of 14 MeV neutrons for radiotherapy and radionuclide production is suggested. (author)