Routine 18F− production with 180 μA to 200 μA target beam current on a GE PETtrace 800 cyclotron

Through upgrades and enhancements, which are now standard on current PETtrace 800 cyclotrons, a GE PETtrace cyclotron installed in 2002 has demonstrated reliable routine [18F]FDG production at total target beam currents of 180 μA without detriment to saturation and [18F]FDG yields. Routine production at 200 μA has been achieved and its evaluation is continuing. Self-shielded target using W/Cu alloy for the target body afforded a reduction in dose rate from the Havar foils by a factor of ∼ 8-10, reducing dose from the targets and need for removing targets during maintenance. The main activation product in the shield is 187W (T1/2 24 h). The 60Co ((T1/2 5.3 y) activation is about 250 times less at 24 h post EOB and is not considered a major issue despite its long half-life.