Analytical control of a radiopharmaceutical using a cathode ray polarograph

A method has been developed for chemical control of a short-lived radiopharmaceutical, 52Fe. The optimum conditions have been investigated for the simultaneous determination of microgram amounts of nickel, iron and chromium in an admixture. The method developed is applicable for the determination of 0.01 to 20 μg ml-1 of nickel, 0.01 to 50 μg ml-1 of iron and 0.05 to 50 μg ml-1 of chromium. A study has been made of the mutual interference of these elements at different concentrations, and also of the interference by various other cations and anions. A list has been given of the other elements that can be analysed using the supporting electrolyte. A method of routine analysis is described. (T.G.)