A new neutron-deficient isotope, 235Am

The new transuranium neutron-deficient isotope 235Am was produced by bombarding of 238Pu with 35-MeV protons beam via the (p,4n) reaction. The reaction products were transported by a helium-jet system. A rapid radiochemical method was employed for separating the americium isotopes from the complex products. From the observed Kx-rays of Np, γ-ray of 235Pu and x-γ coincidence measurements, the new neutron-deficient isotope 235Am with a half-life 15±5min was definitely identified for the first time.