Excitation functions for some W, Ta and Hf radionuclides obtained by deuteron irradiation of Ta up to 40 MeV

Experimental excitation functions for deuteron induced reactions up to 40 MeV on mono-isotopic Ta (¹⁸¹Ta) were measured with the activation method using a stacked foil irradiation technique. From high resolution gamma spectrometry and X-ray analysis cross-section data for the production of ¹⁸¹W, ^{177,178g,180g,182m+g}Ta, and ^179m2,180mHf were determined. Comparison with the scarce earlier published data are presented and results for values predicted by different theoretical codes, adapted for more reliable calculations for d-induced reactions, are included. Thick target yields for ^{182m+g,180g,178g}Ta and ¹⁸¹W were calculated from a fit to our experimental excitation curves. Using dose conversion factors and irradiation scenarios, possible occupational doses to maintenance or scientific personnel around high power accelerators where Ta based structural elements (collimators, beam stoppers, shielding) are present could be derived.