Optimizing Alpha Emitters for Efficient Transmutation: A Cost-Effective Approach

[Strat-O]

I would like to pursue an idea that involves transmutation of elements using an alpha emitter. I figure that the production rate I would like to achieve would require about 5 Ci of radioactivity. What would be a good candidate, i.e. least expensive and reliable supply with a half life of > 60 days and an energy of at least 1.5 MeV? I've looked at Po-210 but according to wiki, the annual global production is about 100 grams per year and although I haven't worked it out the price per curie is probably prohibitively expensive.

Essentially looking for the biggest alpha-bang per buck!

Thanks

 

[Dr Lots-o'watts]

How about this:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Americium#Applications

 

[Strat-O]

Thanks. After posting I thought about Americium because it's common in smoke detectors. It is a bit expensive at $160 per milligram but I think I can produce small amounts of product and scale it up.

1 gram of Americium would generate 3.5 Ci. I'm guessing that amount would cost far less than $160,000. The cool thing is with a 400+ year half life for Am-241, it would not need to be replenished often.

Strat-O

 

[Strat-O]

Price is outstanding. Looks like you can get a gram of Am-241 oxide for $1,600.

 

[Astronuc]

Thanks. After posting I thought about Americium because it's common in smoke detectors. It is a bit expensive at $160 per milligram but I think I can produce small amounts of product and scale it up.

1 gram of Americium would generate 3.5 Ci. I'm guessing that amount would cost far less than $160,000. The cool thing is with a 400+ year half life for Am-241, it would not need to be replenished often.

Strat-O

Read this - http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/cfr/part030/

 

[LogicalAcid]

I do believe there are a certain set of guidelines you should follow before you attempt this.

 

[Strat-O]

That makes sense.