Nuclear Cross-Section of Proton-Induced Reactions on Enriched Ti Targets for the Production of Theranostic Sc Radionuclide, Sc, Sc, Sc, Sc, and V.

The cross-sections of the Ti(p,x)Sc, Sc, Sc, Sc, Sc, and V nuclear reactions were measured from 18 to 70 MeV, with particular attention to Sc production. Enriched Ti powder was deposited on an aluminum backing and the obtained targets were characterized via elastic backscattering spectroscopy at the INFN-LNL. Targets were exposed to low-intensity proton irradiation using the stacked-foils technique at the ARRONAX facility.

Diamond-based sensors for in vitro cellular radiobiology: Simultaneous detection of cell exocytic activity and ionizing radiation.

The investigation of secondary effects induced by ionizing radiation represents a new and ever-growing research field in radiobiology. This new paradigm cannot be investigated only using standard instrumentation and methodologies, but rather requires novel technologies to achieve significant progress. In this framework, we developed diamond-based sensors that allow simultaneous real-time measurements with a high spatial resolution of the secretory activity of a network of cells cultured on the device, as well as of the dose at which they are exposed during irradiation experiments.

Design, deposition, and characterization of multilayer coatings for the ultraviolet and visible-light coronagraphic imager.

The Ultraviolet and Visible-Light Coronagraphic Imager is the baseline coronagraph for the European Space Agency's payload Solar Orbiter, a solar mission whose launch in 2011 is expected. To prove the feasibility of its innovative design, a sounding rocket version of the same instrument has been approved by NASA. One of the main technological challenges of the instrument is the achievement of multilayer optical coatings with suitable properties.

Study of the contaminant transport into granite microfractures using nuclear ion beam techniques.

Hydrated bentonite is a very plastic material and it is expected to enter in the rock microfractures at the granite/bentonite boundary of a deep geological high-level waste repository. This process is enhanced by the high swelling pressure of the clay. Since bentonite has a very good sorption capability for many radionuclides, the displacement of the clay might lead to a "clay-mediated" contaminant transport into the rock.