An automated synthesis of 11C-methyl iodide with singlevessel

Objective: To develop an automated synthesis of 11C-methyl iodide (CH3 I) with single vessel in liquid phase. Methods: The 11C-dioxide was delivered to the reaction tube containing hydrolyzed lithium aluminum. The tube was refrigerated to -5 degree C by compressed air, and then heated to 100-190 degree C when the radioactivity were delivered completely. The argon gas was introduced to the tube in order to remove tetrahydrofuran (THF). Added 57% HI to the tube by pneumatic injection after cooling down the tube. Heated the tube again to 100-190 degree C, and then cooled down the upper part of the tube. The 11C-CH3 I produced was carried out by argon gas. Three precursors were methylated and high synthesis yield of 11C-CH3 I was achieved. Results: The synthesis yield of 11C-CH3 I was (85.3 ± 1.7), synthesis time was 7 min. Conclusion: The technology and automatic device can be used to synthesize 11C-CH3 I with high yield, and it can be used in the PET center. (authors)