A simple and rapid technique for recovery of Tc-99m from low specific activity (n,gamma)Mo-99 based on solvent extraction and column chromatography

A simple and inexpensive method of separation of Tc-99m from Mo-99 produced by neutron activation of Mo-99 via the Mo-99(n,gamma)Mo-99 nuclear reaction is described. The recovery of Tc-99m was performed by solvent extraction technique followed by column (active alumina) chromatography. The overall radiochemical yield for the complete separation of Tc-99m was 85-95% (n = 10). The separated Na[Tc-99m]TcO4 was of high radionuclidic, radiochemical, and chemical purities. The method can be adopted for routine use of Tc-99m in hospital radio-pharmacies utilizing low-medium specific activity (n,gamma)Mo-99 produced in a research reactor. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.