Publication Date
Fall 2024
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Chemistry
Advisor
Nicholas Esker; Annalise Van Wyngarden; Ningkun Wang
Abstract
Nuclear science is primarily focused on studying exotic isotopes for the end goal of either practical applications, like nuclear medicine, or ascertaining the fundamental properties of the nucleus. Key to the reactions necessary to produce these isotopes are the targets, thin films of material that serve as both a reaction site and a source of the reaction’s protons and neutrons. Ideally, these targets are made sufficiently smooth and uniform while being robust enough to withstand intense beam irradiation. Our chosen method for producing these targets is physical vapor deposition (PVD) via resistive heating, a procedure that has the advantage of having precise control over material deposition and consistent uniformity of its product films. Additionally, we have elected to produce bismuth and uranium targets as these are, respectively, the heaviest stable element or heaviest naturally occurring actinide available and so would be ideal target materials for heavy isotope production. To limit radiological contamination risks, gold was also used as an analog material prior to the actual production of the uranium targets. With the current infrastructure at our disposal, we can report the successful production of both bismuth and uranium tetrafluoride targets that are within 20% deviation of the bulk average. As we have successfully produced these targets, the basic methodology covered in this work will be used and tailored towards future work involving the production of targets through PVD.
Recommended Citation
Le, Luca, "Methodology Development for Producing Robust Nuclear Targets Using Physical Vapor Deposition" (2024). Master's Theses. 5596.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.31979/etd.u7ja-8mut
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/etd_theses/5596
