Nuclear model analysis of excitation functions of proton induced reactions on 86Sr, 88Sr and natZr: Evaluation of production routes of 86Y

The proton induced nuclear reactions on 86Sr, 88Sr and natZr were investigated for the production of 86Y. The literature data were compared with the results of nuclear model calculations using the codes ALICE-IPPE, TALYS 1.6 and EMPIRE 3.2. The thick target yields of 86Y were calculated from the recommended excitation functions. Analysis of radioyttrium impurities was also performed. A comparison of the various production routes showed that for medical applications of 86Y, the reaction 86Sr(p,n)86Y is the method of choice, which gives efficient yield with minimum impurities. •Nuclear model calculations on protons on 86Sr, 88Sr and natZr using the codes ALICE-IPPE, TALYS-1.6 and EMPIRE 3.2 and evaluation of the 86Sr(p,n)86Y and 88Sr(p,3n)86Y reactions for 86Y production.•Calculation of thick target yields of 86Y and comparison with the calculated and experimental yield data given in literature.•Analysis of radionuclidic impurities in the production of 86Y.•Comparison of production routes of 86Y for medical application.