Automated processing of solid target 86Y using enriched SrO powder.

Abstract

86Y (t1/2 = 14.74 h, 32% β+) has significant potential in theranostic applications as a simultaneous PET imaging partner to 90Y-labelled antibody therapy. However, the complex and costly nature of producing 86Y has led to this radiometal being difficult for hospitals and researchers to obtain. The aim of this work was to develop a simple and cost-efficient method for safely producing 86Y. Our approach was twofold: to develop a method of target preparation that would significantly increase the cost efficiency of producing 86Y, and to design and construct an automated purification system that would eliminate manual radiation handling risks and exposure. Multiple automated productions of high radionuclidic purity (99.45%) 86Y were performed resulting in saturation yields of between 518 MBq/μA and 1332 MBq/μA, dependent on target thickness.