Abstract
The (64)Cu/(67)Cu pair is an ideal set of theranostic radionuclides for treating patients based on their genetic profiles. We propose a novel production route for this radionuclide pair using accelerator-generated neutrons. We report experimental measurements of the absolute activity and radionuclide purity of (64)Cu and (67)Cu, produced by irradiating (64)Zn and (68)Zn with these neutrons. The measured results were consistent with simulated values. (64)Cu and (67)Cu were separated from the irradiated natural Zn and (68)Zn using sublimation and column separation techniques. The production methods for (64)Cu and (67)Cu developed in this study are expected to enhance their availability in an economically sustainable manner.