Development of a 125I source for its application in bone densitometry

This paper describes a method for the preparation of 125I sources for their use in bone densitometer. The process consists of preparation of silver pellets of size ∼2.5 mm (ϕ)×0.6 mm (l) by ‘Cold die compaction technique’, palladium coating of the silver pellets, adsorption of 125I on the palladium coated silver pellets and encapsulation source matrix in a titanium capsule [ 3 mm (ϕ)×10 mm(l)] using Nd:YAG laser. The texture and morphology of the source matrix were examined by SEM and EDS analyses. Encapsulated sources containing 125I activity up to ∼1.85 GBq (50 mCi) were prepared. Quality control tests that were necessary before application were performed and gave satisfactory results.

► Development of technology for the preparation of 125I sources for bone densitometer.
► Silver pellets of size ∼2.5 mm (ϕ)×0.6 mm (l) were prepared by ‘cold die compaction technique’.
► The process consists of palladium coating of silver pellets followed by adsorption of 125I.
► The source is encapsulated in a titanium capsule using Nd:YAG laser.
► The technical feasibility and source quality has been demonstrated.