Isomeric Targets for High-Energy Density Applications

This effort will identify sources and production methods for isomeric materials. Isomeric targets will be built and characterized for experiments and potential application studies. Isomers will include Hf-178m2 and other isomers of similar characteristicsfavorable to triggered energy release by x-ray irradiation. Experiments will include spectroscopic analysis, x-ray irradiation effects, and other energy-time resolved decay measurements to determine reaction cross-sections, trigger energies, triggereddecay cascade transitions, and isomer production reaction characteristics. Provides a source of long-lived isomer targets developed for specific triggering experimental protocols. Will provide scientific data to allow development of triggered isomer-based applications including medical oncology, industrial radiography, foodsterilization, neutralization of biohazards including military weapons of mass destruction.