Patent ID: 9047997
Filing Date: 2015-06-02
Classification: G21G

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for producing radioisotopes comprising: an irradiation chamber; a compact, stand-alone, fast neutron generator disposed within the irradiation chamber configured to provide fast neutrons; NEU material disposed within the irradiation chamber; one or more NEU-receiving regions disposed within the irradiation chamber and configured to accommodate the NEU material; and one or more non-moderating neutron-reflecting regions disposed in the irradiation chamber; wherein the one or more non-moderating neutron-reflecting regions are configured to increase the path length traveled by at least some neutrons from the neutron generator before those neutrons leave the irradiation chamber; wherein the one or more non-moderating, neutron-reflecting regions disposed in the irradiation chamber comprise multiple elongated parallel outer tubular shells formed of non-moderating neutron-reflecting material; wherein each of the multiple elongated parallel outer tubular shells has an interior bore containing NEU; wherein the interior bore defines one of the one or more NEU-receiving regions; and wherein the irradiation chamber has a fill port disposed on the upward portion of the irradiation chamber and has a drain port disposed on the lower portion of the irradiation chamber.