Development of LEU targets and processing for {sup 99}Mo production

Currently most of the world`s supply of {sup 99m}Tc for medical purposes is produced from {sup 99Mo} derived from the fissioning of high enriched uranium (HEU). This paper is a status report of the continuing studies on the results of substituting low enriched uranium (LEU) for HEU in targets for the production of fission product 99Mo. These studies have included developing cylindrical targets with uranium metal films and plate and napkin-ring targets with uranium silicide dispersed fuel. Effects of LEU substitution on target preparation, irradiation, and processing and on product purity have been studied. Results to date suggest that substitution of LEU for HEU can be achieved.