Measurement of neutron activation cross sections for the 99Tc(n,p) 99Mo, 99Tc(n,α) 96Nb, 99Tc (n,n'α) 95Nb, and 99Tc(n,n')99mTc reactions at 13.5 and 14.8 MeV

The activation cross sections for the 99Tc(n,p)99Mo, 99Tc(n,α)96Nb, 99Tc(n,n'α)95Nb, and 99Tc(n,n')99nTc reactions at 13.5 and 14.8 MeV have been measured by using the deuterium-tritium neutron generator (the Fusion Neutronics Source) at the Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute. The results were compared with experimental values form the literature, evaluated activation cross-section files, and predictions by current cross-section computer codes. Special emphasis was placed on the feasibility of producing high-specific-activity 99Mo, to be used in medical applications, via the 99Tc(n,p)99Mo reaction in the Fusion Material Irradiation Facility. A factor of 3 overestimate of 99Mo production resulted when the REAC*2 code was used. It is suggested that this discrepancy is due primarily to the factor of 5 difference in cross sections at the 14-MeV region between the REAC*2 data and the current measurement