A novel and facile approach for the preparation of 133Ba source core, encapsulation and quality evaluation

Abstract

Abstract This paper describes a facile and effective method to prepare 133Ba source exploiting the intrinsic properties of the anodized titanium to electro-deposit 133Ba from an aqueous solution. The process consists of anodization of Ti rod [4.8 mm (∅)  ×  10 mm (l)] to create a reactive surface to permit cathodic electrodeposition of 133Ba from an aqueous solution. The factors that influence the electrodeposition of 133Ba onto the anodized titanium substrate were identified and a careful control has been exercised to ensure optimum deposition of 133Ba activity onto the substrate. The morphology of the electrodeposited samples were examined by SEM and EDS analyses. Sources containing ∼ 3.7–11.1 MBq (0.1–0.3 mCi) 133Ba were prepared, encapsulated successfully in titanium capsules and subjected to quality control tests to ensure compliance with mandatory regulatory safety requirements.