Potential use of an irradiated natural tin target for preparation of a mixed sealed source based on 12-tungstocerate gel matrix for radiometric calibration purposes

Irradiated natural tin target and 12-tungstocerate gel matrix were used for preparing a 113Sn and 124,125Sb sealed source. The distribution coefficients of 113Sn/113m In and 124,125Sb ions on 12-tungstocerate gel matrix were determined in relation to HCl concentration. 12-Tungstocerate gel matrix was loaded with 113Sn/113m In and 124,125Sb by equilibrating an irradiated Sn(IV) solution with 0.5 g of the matrix at pH 1 (HCl) for 24 h at 25 ± 1°C. A mixed sealed source of 113Sn/113m In and 124,125Sb was prepared by packing 105 mg of the loaded matrix in the cylindrical cavity of a Chinese artelone capsule. The activity of the source was in the millicurie range. The source successfully passed quality control tests.