Cyclotron production of 99m Tc: Comparison of known separation technologies for isolation of 99m Tc from molybdenum targets.

Intensive efforts were undertaken during the last few decades for the separation of cyclotron-produced 99m Tc from 99 Mo and new papers have been published on this topic since the last review [1]. In the future the cyclotron-based methods can replace reactor-based technology in producing this medical radioisotope and the nuclear reaction 100 Mo(p,2n)99m Tc appears to be the most worthwhile approach. New ways of producing of 99m Tc require efficient separation methods. Several strategies for separation of 99m Tc from 99 Mo have been already developed. The advantages, disadvantages and technical challenges toward application potential of investigated methods to separate 99m Tc from irradiated 100 Mo target are discussed. These methods include column chromatography, solvent extraction, chemical precipitation and thermochromatography.