Xenon isotopes (Xe)
Naturally occurring Xenon has nine stable isotopes.
| Isotope | Maximum available enrichment (atomic %) | Natural abundance (atomic %) |
|---|---|---|
| ¹²⁴Xe | >99.9, <1 | 0.10 |
| ¹²⁶Xe | >99.9, <1 | 0.10 |
| ¹²⁸Xe | >99.9, <1 | 1.90 |
| ¹²⁹Xe | >99.9, <1 | 26.40 |
| ¹³⁰Xe | >99.9, <1 | 4.10 |
| ¹³¹Xe | >99.9, <1 | 21.20 |
| ¹³²Xe | >99.9, <1 | 26.90 |
| ¹³⁴Xe | >99.9, <1 | 10.40 |
| ¹³⁶Xe | >99.9, <1 | 8.90 |
Application of Xenon isotopes
Xenon 124 (Xe 124)
Xe-124 is used as a precursor for both radioactive I-123 and I-125. I-123 is an important thyroid diagnostic radiopharmaceutical isotope, also used for diagnostic analysis of brain, kidney and neurological diseases. This is also used for the diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease. I-125 is used in diagnostic imaging and detection of osteoporosis, and in radiotherapy treatment of prostate cancer through seed implantation.
Xenon 126 (Xe 126)
Xe-126 can be used as a target for the production of radioactive Ba-128.
Xenon 129 (Xe 129)
Xe-129 is used for medical diagnostics to extend the possibilities and improve the results of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). In hyperpolarized state the Xe-129 is inhaled by the patient, allowing clear images of the lungs and trachea to be obtained with conventional MRI equipment. Furthermore, the Xenon gas dissolves in the blood stream and therefore images of the circulatory system can be made.
Xenon 136 (Xe 136)
Xe-136 has been used as a detector for neutrinoless double Beta decay research.
