Methodology for the qualitative screening of parallel arrays of potential Am3+ ligands using a photographic film

A screening method for parallel Am(3+) ligand libraries is presented. The method makes use of alpha-radiation in combination with a photographic film to detect the complexed Am(3+). After screening and development of the film spots of varying intensities are obtained. The intensities of the spots correspond with the amount of complexed Am(3+). This allows a fast discrimination between the Am(3+) complexation efficiencies of ligands from large libraries. Depending on the exposure time of the film, activities as small as 5Bq (241)Am can be detected. Using internal standards a semi-quantitative assessment can be performed.