A simple and efficient method to recover isotopically enriched Ni-64 from electrolytic solutions

Area of Science:

• Radiochemistry
• Nuclear Chemistry
• Materials Science

Background:

• The primary method for producing copper-64 (⁶⁴Cu) involves proton irradiation of nickel-64 (⁶⁴Ni).
• Electrodeposition of ⁶⁴Ni onto a substrate is crucial for this production method.
• Difficulties in electrodeposition necessitate reprocessing of the electrolytic solution, complicated by the presence of salt buffers that hinder nickel recovery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a straightforward and effective technique for recovering nickel-64 (⁶⁴Ni) from reprocessing solutions.
• To address the challenge of nickel recovery in the context of ⁶⁴Cu production.

Main Methods:

• Investigated methods for separating nickel-64 from salt buffers in electrolytic solutions.
• Focused on developing a simple and efficient recovery process.

Main Results:

• A simple and efficient method for recovering nickel-64 was successfully developed.
• The developed method facilitates the reprocessing of solutions when electrodeposition fails.

Conclusions:

• The new recovery method simplifies the reprocessing of nickel-64 solutions.
• This advancement supports the consistent production of copper-64 by enabling efficient nickel recovery.