152Sm

Samarium-152 (¹⁵²Sm) is a radioactive isotope of the chemical element samarium, a lanthanide series metal. It is characterized by a half-life of approximately 1.08 days and undergoes beta decay to become europium-152 (¹⁵²Eu). Samarium-152 is primarily produced artificially through neutron activation in nuclear reactors, where stable samarium-151 (¹⁵¹Sm) absorbs a neutron and transforms into the radioactive isotope.

¹⁵²Sm is notable for its use in medical and industrial applications, particularly in the field of brachytherapy, a form of radiation therapy where radioactive sources are placed directly into or near tumors. Its relatively short half-life makes it suitable for targeted treatments, as the radiation diminishes quickly after administration. Additionally, it has been explored for its potential in neutron capture therapy (NCT), a technique that combines radiation therapy with a neutron-capturing agent to treat cancer.

In nuclear physics research, ¹⁵²Sm serves as a useful tracer due to its gamma emissions, which can be detected to study chemical reactions, material properties, and biological processes. Its decay produces gamma rays with energies of 103 keV and 122 keV, making it detectable with standard gamma spectroscopy equipment.

The isotope is also of interest in nuclear waste management, as it contributes to the long-term radioactivity of spent nuclear fuel. Due to its relatively short half-life compared to other actinide and lanthanide isotopes, it decays into more stable elements over time, reducing the overall radioactivity of nuclear waste over centuries.

While ¹⁵²Sm has practical applications, its radioactivity requires careful handling, adhering to strict radiation safety protocols. Research and medical use are typically conducted in controlled environments with appropriate shielding and monitoring.