A semi-automated system for concentration of rhenium-188 for radiopharmaceutical applications

A semi-automated system has been designed and installed for the routine production of highly concentrated solutions of rhenium-188 perrhenate in saline which incorporates extensive radiation protection for the laboratory staff. This new system represents a simple, rapid, and effective computer controlled method using inexpensive disposable components. The flipper-valve settings and the radioactivity measured by use of collimated gamma dose rate probes are continuously monitored. If necessary, 2-3 tungsten-188/rhenium-188 generators can be eluted in a tandem arrangement. Eluate volumes (1.3-2 ml) of maximum specific radioactivity of 25 GBq/ml were routinely prepared.