Perspective methods for Berkelium – 249 preparation and application

The paper presents various ways of considerable increase in the yield of californium isotopes in curium irradiation process.. The main way is quasi continuous separation of the intermediate product, 249Bk, followed by its irradiation in a more favorable neutron spectrum. Regeneration of spent californium sources with separation of 248Cm and its further irradiation can be considered as an additional source of californium isotopes. The attention is drawn to the fact, that irradiation of 248Cm and 249Bk can be arranged in the reactors with moderate neutron flux.A new method of berkelium and californium separation is also discussed in the paper. The method is based on the difference in the volatility of these elements in metallic state or as intermetalides with noble metals.