Preparation and De-excitation Measurements of 177mLu Using Fast Neutrons

The t1/2=160.4 d isomer 177mLu has many attractive features related to inducing gamma-ray decay to the ground state of the t1/2=6.4 d 177Lu. Also, as opposed to other isomers it maybe possible to produce it in quantities without the need for extravagant or costly methods. An experimental approach is outlined for both studies using fast neutron inelastic scattering and short-pulse bremsstrahlung radiation to produce the rapid release of gamma rays from this isomer. Furthermore, cross sections for production of the isomer using fast neutrons with energies between 10-500 keV will also be studied.