The properties of astatine-211 make it a great candidate for targeted alpha therapy for cancer due to its short half-life (7.2 h) and non-toxic decay pathway. However, its natural occurrence is miniscule, but can be produced in useful quantities via the 209Bi(α,2n)211At using a 28.5 MeV alpha beam. The Texas A&M Cyclotron Institute has recently joined the DOE University Isotope Network to produce astatine-211 in a location proximal to major cancer research centers. To optimize the production of astatine, the beam current and alpha projectile coverage of the bismuth target should be uniform. Non-uniform beams lead to increased temperature and possible melting in spots on the bismuth targets and can cause volatilization of the astatine. In order to combat these challenges, a custom, 3D-printed Faraday cup viewer in the exact size and position of the target, and an air monitoring system were developed. Before inserting the target into the beamline, the alpha beam is tuned onto the faraday cup viewer comprised of 37 individual Faraday cups. In addition to phosphorescing, the viewer provides a position dependent reading of the beam current. This Faraday cup viewer diagnoses hot spots in the beam providing valuable feedback during beam tuning for a greater overall current on the target. After the target irradiation, the air monitoring system confirms the air inside the chamber is safe for target removal. This combination of the Faraday cup viewer with the air monitoring system increases the safety of astatine production.

Beam characterization for safe 211At production

ACS Spring Meeting 2021

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.