Management of radioactive waste gases from PET radiopharmaceutical synthesis using cost effective capture systems integrated with a cyclotron safety system

J Radiol Prot. 2016 Sep;36(3):504-517. doi: 10.1088/0952-4746/36/3/504. Epub 2016 Jul 7.

Abstract

The emphasis on the reduction of gaseous radioactive effluent associated with PET radiochemistry laboratories has increased. Various radioactive gas capture strategies have been employed historically including expensive automated compression systems. We have implemented a new cost-effective strategy employing gas capture bags with electronic feedback that are integrated with the cyclotron safety system. Our strategy is suitable for multiple automated 18F radiosynthesis modules and individual automated 11C radiosynthesis modules. We describe novel gas capture systems that minimize the risk of human error and are routinely used in our facility.

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollutants, Radioactive / analysis*
  • Air Pollution, Indoor / analysis*
  • Air Pollution, Indoor / prevention & control
  • Carbon Radioisotopes / chemistry*
  • Cyclotrons
  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18 / chemical synthesis*
  • Gases*
  • Medical Waste Disposal / methods*
  • Positron-Emission Tomography*
  • Radioactive Waste*
  • Radiopharmaceuticals / chemical synthesis*

Substances

  • Air Pollutants, Radioactive
  • Carbon Radioisotopes
  • Gases
  • Medical Waste Disposal
  • Radioactive Waste
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18