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Medical · Theranostic
Cu
29
64

Copper-64

A versatile theranostic isotope with a unique triple decay mode (β⁺/β⁻/EC). Its 12.7-hour half-life supports extended imaging windows and regional distribution.

t½ 12.7 hoursβ⁺ / β⁻ / Electron Capture
29 e⁻4 shells

Atomic Structure

29
Protons
35
Neutrons
K2 e⁻
L8 e⁻
M18 e⁻
N1 e⁻

Applications

  • Neuroendocrine tumors (DOTATATE)
  • Prostate cancer (PSMA R&D)
  • Theranostic pairing with Cu-67
  • Hypoxia imaging (ATSM)

Production

Reaction
⁶⁴Ni(p,n)⁶⁴Cu
Target
Enriched ⁶⁴Ni
Source
16 MeV Cyclotron
16 MeV CyclotronYes
30 MeV CyclotronYes
70 MeV CyclotronYes
Nuclear ReactorYes

Threshold ~2.5 MeV, optimal 10–15 MeV; reactor route ⁶⁴Zn(n,p)⁶⁴Cu.