An 18O2-target for the high yield production of 18F-fluoride

A high pressure target for the production of 18F-fluoride via 18O(p,n)18F is described. A small-volume chamber receives a standard 10 mL, glass test tube with a silvered interior. The 18O2 target gas is admitted, irradiated, then retrieved without losses into a reservoir by cryogenic pumping. At 10-MeV proton energy, 150 mCi/μA end-of-saturated-bombardment (EOSB) activities of 18F are conveniently deposited on the inner surface of the target liner. This liner is removed and serves as the reaction flask for various syntheses needing precursor 18F-fluoride. Production of the simple fluoralkane CH318F has been chosen as the standard reaction, due to its clinical demand in the assessment of regional cerebral blood flow. (author)