An apparatus for producing a radionuclide includes a target chamber, a
particle beam source operatively aligned with the target chamber, and a
regenerative turbine pump for circulating a target fluid through the
target chamber via first and second liquid transports. During bombardment
of the target liquid in the target chamber by the particle beam source,
the target liquid is prevented from reaching vaporization due to the
elevated pressure within the target chamber and/or the rapid flow rate
through the target chamber. A cooling system can be provided to circulate
coolant to the first and second liquid transport conduits, the target
chamber and the pump to ensure that the target liquid is cooled upon
recirculation back into the target chamber.