High beam current operation of a PETtraceTM cyclotron for 18F− production

Upgrades and optimisation achieved 160 μA total target current operation of a GE PETtrace cyclotron in dual target mode for the routine production of [18F]FDG for >2 years. Approximately 900 GBq of 18F− and >500 GBq of [18F]FDG can be produced routinely in a single production run, meeting the routine [18F]FDG requirements with our customer base and achieving economies of scale. Production of >1 TBq of 18F− in a single run was achieved. Reliability, saturation and synthesis yields were not adversely affected.

► Routine [18F]FDG production with a PETtrace cyclotron for >2 years at 160 μA.
► No deterioration in reliability and [18F]FDG yield at the higher beam currents.
► 500 GBq of [18F]FDG and >900 GBq of 18F− from a single production run.
► Sodium thiosulfate used to reduce radiolysis of high concentration [18F]FDG.