Solid targets for $99mTc$ production on medical cyclotrons

A method to produce solid $100Mo$ metal targets capable of withstanding proton irradiation with a power density of up to 1.1 kW/cm² has been developed. The method of choice involves the electrodeposition of enriched $100Mo$ powder onto a tantalum backing, followed by high-temperature sintering in order to afford a coating that is sufficient to withstand bombardment for extended periods of time, yet reactive enough to allow for oxidative dissolution in seconds. This method is amenable to high-throughput techniques to allow for the production of $99mTc$ via the $100Mo(p,2n)99mTc$ reaction on small medical cyclotrons.