Design and Testing of a Fast-Release Tilted Target for RIA

72340B03-I The performance of targets is critical for the successful operation of the RIA (Rare Isotope Accelerator) facility. There is a need for fast, efficient, isotope separation on-line (ISOL)-type targets for use with the compressed powder of refractory material, and with beam power up to 100 kW or higher. Among the concepts currently under study, the tilted target is a promising approach for a fast release target that would provide considerable yields in the spallation region of the residual mass distribution. This project will design, fabricate, and test a prototype tilted target, and address issues concerned with heat removal, temperature distribution (thermal stresses) in the target plate, and ideal angle of the target plate. Phase I will investigate the heat removal from the target plate and define materials for an experimental mockup. An irradiation facility will be selected for testing, and a preliminary design of the experimental setup will be carried out. Feasibility will be assessed, based on budget, fabrication, availability of suitable irradiation facilities, and beam time. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: A fast release, high power target should greatly benefit RIA design activities. The target concept also could be used by other accelerators and radioisotope production devices. Because such targets have finite lifetime, roughly one month at high power, there would be a continuous need for a commercial supply.