Development of production techniques for ytterbium-169 sources

Because ytterbium-169 has the advantage of emitting low energy γ-radiation, it has been developed as radiation sources for nondestructive testing. The JAERI has established the development of production techniques for ytterbium-169 sources. This article reviews ytterbium-169 sources in the context of production techniques. The production of ytterbium-169 sources is explained according to the following items: preparation of ytterbium-169 target, reactor irradiation, radioactivity measurement, and sealed sources. The application of ytterbium-169 sources to nondestructive testing is described in relation to spatial dose rates and shielding; radiographic procedures; and distinguishment and radiographic cases. Feasible tests of ytterbium-169 have confirmed its usage in nondestructive testing. (N.K.)