A simple and rapid technique for recovery of 99mTc from low specific activity (n,γ)99Mo based on solid–liquid extraction and column chromatography methodologies

A simple and inexpensive method has been developed for the separation of 99mTc from 99Mo produced from the neutron activation of 98Mo by 98Mo(n,γ)99Mo nuclear reaction. The recovery of 99mTc was performed by solid–liquid extraction based on alumina column chromatography. The overall radiochemical yield for the complete separation of 99mTc was 85–97% (n=5). The separated Na[99mTc]TcO4 was of high radionuclidic, radiochemical and chemical purities. The method can be adopted for routine processing and use of 99mTc in radiopharmacy operations.