Optimization of irradiation parameters for67Ga production fromnatZn (p, xn) nuclear reactions

Excitation functions fornatZn (p, xn) and (p, pxn) nuclear reactions in the 5–45 MeV proton energy range were measured. Evaluations were made both of target thickness and proton energy in order to optimize the67Ga production rate, at the same time minimizing contamination by the66Ga. Optimal irradiation conditions, depending both on the beam current available and on the power dissipated into the target were determined.