Abstract
The feasibility, performance, and radiation safety of an experimental generator were evaluated to efficiently produce (212)Pb intended for radiopharmaceuticals. Methods: The generator consisted of a flask with a removable cap containing a source of (224)Ra or (228)Th absorbed on quartz wool. Gaseous (220)Rn emanated from the decaying source, which subsequently decayed to (212)Pb, which was adsorbed on the flask's interior surface. The (212)Pb was collected by washing the flask with 0.5-1 mL of 0.1 M HCl. Results: The generator collector flask trapped 62%-68% of the (212)Pb, of which more than 87% (tested up to 26 MBq) could be harvested. The obtained (212)Pb solution had a high purity (>99.98%) and could be used for the preparation of radioconjugates with more than 97% radiochemical purity. Future designs of the generator should aim to further reduce the risk of radon and γ-energy exposure to operators. Conclusion: The presented technology is a promising method for easy and convenient (212)Pb production.