Zirconium molybdate gel as a generator for technetium-99m--II. High activity generators.

Area of Science:

• Radiochemistry
• Nuclear Medicine

Background:

• Zirconium molybdate gel characteristics were detailed in Part I.
• High-activity technetium-99m (99mTc) generators require stable matrices for efficient radioisotope production.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the stability and performance of zirconium molybdate gel as a matrix for 99mTc generators.
• To assess elution efficiency, radionuclidic purity, and pH of eluates from these generators.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of zirconium molybdate gel from neutron-irradiated molybdenum oxide.
• Elution studies using generators with varying gel amounts (2-150 g).
• Analysis of radionuclidic impurities and pH of eluates, with post-treatment using a zirconium oxide bed.

Main Results:

• Zirconium molybdate gel demonstrated sufficient stability for high-activity 99mTc generator preparation.
• Elution efficiencies ranged from 50-98% depending on gel quantity and elution volume.
• Radionuclidic impurities were below British Pharmacopoeia (BP) limits, and 99Mo levels were reduced tenfold post-treatment.
• Eluate pH was adjusted to BP limits using a zirconium oxide bed.

Conclusions:

• Zirconium molybdate gel is a viable and stable matrix for producing high-activity 99mTc generators.
• The generators provide efficient 99mTc elution with acceptable purity and pH after post-treatment.
• Radiopharmaceuticals derived from these generators exhibit normal biodistribution patterns.