A semi-automated system for the routine production of copper-64

An automated system for the production of high specific activity 64Cu via the irradiation of electroplated enriched 64Ni targets has been developed. We have been operating this system continually on a biweekly or weekly basis for more than two years. Since the inception of this automated production system, (October 1, 2008), we have had 145 productions, produced 53562 mCi and shipped out 25629 mCi of this isotope to external users. We routinely produce over 400 mCi of this isotope per batch with a specific activity of 14,000±7600 mCi/μmol for distribution to some 12–15 centers each production.

► 64Cu is an isotope of interest for Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and radiotherapy.
► A semi-automated system for the production of 64Cu is reported.
► This system has the capability to produce large amounts of this isotope reliably on a weekly basis.
► This includes dissolution of the nickel target material and separation using ion chromatography.