Abstract: Disclosed herein are a method and an apparatus to identify alpha-emitting radionuclides and to measure absolute alpha radioactivity using a low temperature detector. A 4? metallic absorber which encloses a radioactive material containing alpha-emitting radionuclides absorbs the total alpha decay energy in the form of thermal energy. The corresponding temperature changes are measured by a low temperature detector attached to the 4? absorber with high energy resolution. The identification of alpha-emitting radionuclides is declared by comparing the measured temperature signal with characteristic decay energy of radionuclides. The absolute amount of the radionuclides is determined by counting the number of the pulses for each of the identified nuclides.

Abstract: A kit, for synthesizing a compound or element, which includes a modular reagent source, a modular trap and release apparatus, and a modular reaction unit. The modular reagent source includes a reagent. The modular trap and release apparatus is configured to separate components of the reagent. The modular reaction unit which is in fluid communication with the modular reagent source and the modular trap and release apparatus. In addition, the modular reaction unit includes a reaction vessel configured to facilitate a chemical reaction.

Abstract: A microfluidic reactor has a reaction chamber which is configured as an annular channel. It is provided that segments have been formed in the annular channel such that a sequence of inlets and outlets (allows an alternation between the process fluids (A and B) to take place. Furthermore, particles which circulate in the annular channel and can be used, for example, for the adsorption and desorption of ions may be provided in the annular channel. In this way, the ions concerned can, for example, be extracted from the process fluid (A) and transferred into the process fluid (B). In a method, the reactor can be used for example for the purpose of obtaining 18F? ions from water enriched therewith and feeding them to a solvent such as acetonitrile. In the further course of the method, the 18F? ions can be used for producing a radiopharmaceutical (for example FDG).

Abstract: Disclosed are improved methods and apparatus for radiolabeling, particularly methods and apparatus for large scale in-line radiolabeling of products, such as proteins and antibodies.

Abstract: In an apparatus for producing U3O8 powder, the apparatus has an oxidation reactor including an interior space, a scrap box loaded with UO2 sintered pellets to be oxidized and introduced into the interior space of the oxidation reactor, an impact generating unit applying an impact to the scrap box to dissipate heat generated by the oxidation of the UO2 sintered pellets in the oxidation reactor, and a control unit controlling an oxidation process. The apparatus for producing U3O8 powder allows the heat generated by the oxidation of the UO2 sintered pellets in the oxidation reactor to be uniformly dissipated by the impact generating unit, thus producing U3O8 powder having a larger specific surface area which can be used to obtain a sintered UO2 pellet with a larger and more stable grain size of increased quality.

Abstract: A vol-oxidizer for spent nuclear fuel is provided. The vol-oxidizer includes a reactor module in which the spent nuclear fuel is put and oxidized; a heating module to heat the reactor module to a high temperature; a utility module to control an inner state of the reactor module, being connected with the reactor module; a support module to support the heating module and the reactor module; a drive module to supply a driving force for transferring the spent nuclear fuel within the reactor module; a valve module to control discharge of the spent nuclear fuel being oxidized in the reactor module; and a collecting container module to collect the spent nuclear fuel being oxidized and discharged from the reactor module. The respective modules are assembled and disassembled with respect to one another.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel compounds which may be used as in vivo imaging agents. The compounds of the invention are useful in a method to image the expression of P2X7 receptors in a subject, as a means to facilitate the diagnosis of a range of disease states.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for facilitating the synthesis of compounds in a batch device are presented. Application of the batch type microfluidic devices to the synthesis of radiolabeled compounds is described. These methods and apparatus enable the selective introduction of multiple reagents via an enhanced rotary flow distribution valve through a single inlet port of the synthetic device. The sequential introduction of multiple reagents through a single inlet port allows an optimal delivery of highly concentrated reagents into the reactor and facilitates the synthesis of the desired products with a minimal loss of materials during transfers, which is critical to the synthesis of radiolabeled biomarkers.

Abstract: An indole-based in vivo imaging agent is provided by the present invention that binds with high affinity to PBR, has good uptake into the brain following administration, and which has good selective binding to PBR. The invention also includes a precursor compound useful in the synthesis of the in vivo imaging agent of the invention, as well as a method for synthesis of said in vivo imaging agent comprising use of said precursor compound, and a kit for carrying out said method. Also provided is a cassette for automated synthesis of the in vivo imaging agent. Further aspects of the invention include a radiopharmaceutical composition comprising the in vivo imaging agent of the invention, and methods for the use of said in vivo imaging agent.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for complexation of a chelate with a radionuclide, advantageously gallium, the complexation being carried out advantageously at ambient temperature without heating, by adding the radionuclide to the chelate in a buffer solution, the buffer of this solution comprising between two and five functions for coordination with the radionuclide, each coordination function being independently chosen from a carboxylic acid function and a hydroxyl function, on the condition that the buffer comprises at least one carboxylic acid function and at most two carboxylic acid functions. It also relates to the injectable solution obtained.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel radiolabeled aryloxyalinine derivative suitable for in vivo imaging. In comparison to known aryloxyalinine derivative in vivo imaging agents, the in vivo imaging agent of the present invention has better properties for in vivo imaging. The in vivo imaging agent of the present invention demonstrates good selective binding to the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR), in combination with good brain uptake and in vivo kinetics following administration to a subject.

Abstract: The invention relates to the treatment of carbon-containing radioactive waste. It particularly envisages: a first type of waste treatment to obtain a carbon oxide, and a second type of treatment to obtain a solid precipitate of the carbon oxide by reacting with a selected element. A method according to the invention comprises: a first phase during which both the first and second type of treatment are applied, and a second phase during which only the first type of treatment is applied.

Abstract: Methods and devices for a fully automated synthesis of radioactive compounds for imaging, such as by positron emission tomography (PET), in a fast, efficient and compact manner are disclosed. In particular, the various embodiments of the present invention provide an automated, stand-alone, hands-free operation of the entire radiosynthesis cycle on a microfluidic device with unrestricted gas flow through the reactor, starting with target water and yielding purified PET radiotracer within a period of time shorter than conventional chemistry systems. Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention is related to a microfluidic chip for radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound, comprising a reaction chamber, one or more flow channels connected to the reaction chamber, one or more vents connected to said reaction chamber, and one or more integrated valves to effect flow control in and out of said reaction chamber.

Abstract: The present invention includes an improved 62Zn/62Cu generator for producing radiopharmaceuticals. The improvements comprising utilization of a significantly reduced generator column size and materials of construction that prevent contamination.

Abstract: A method for reprocessing spent nuclear fuel from a light water reactor includes the step of reacting spent nuclear fuel in a voloxidation vessel with an oxidizing gas having nitrogen dioxide and oxygen for a period sufficient to generate a solid oxidation product of the spent nuclear fuel. The reacting step includes the step of reacting, in a first zone of the voloxidation vessel, spent nuclear fuel with the oxidizing gas at a temperature ranging from 200-450° C. to form an oxidized reaction product, and regenerating nitrogen dioxide, in a second zone of the voloxidation vessel, by reacting oxidizing gas comprising nitrogen monoxide and oxygen at a temperature ranging from 0-80° C. The first zone and the second zone can be separate. A voloxidation system is also disclosed.

Abstract: At least one system for eluting a radioactive material and a method of eluting a radioactive material is provided. The system for eluting a radioactive material may include an elution column configured to enclose an radioactive material, a first sealing member sealing a first end of the elution column, a second sealing member sealing a second end of the elution column, an elution supply source connected to the first end of the elution column via a first needle, a collection system connected to the second end of the elution column via a second needle, and a filter in the elution column, the filter being configured to support the radioactive material and prevent the radioactive material from contacting the second needle.

Abstract: Methods and devices for removing inflammable gases produced by radiolysis in a closed chamber containing radioactive matters comprising organic compounds and possibly water, or radioactive matters in the presence of organic compounds and possibly water. Inside the chamber there may be placed a catalyst of at least one reaction for oxidizing the inflammable gases by oxygen contained in the chamber atmosphere, supported by an inert solid support; a catalyst of at least the reaction for oxidizing CO to CO2; possibly an oxygen source; and possibly a hygroscopic microporous inert solid support. Also, chambers for radioactive matters containing such devices.

Abstract: A method of reducing radiotoxicity in an aqueous acidic solution is disclosed. The method comprises oxidizing actinide ions in an aqueous acidic solution to hexavalent actinide ions. An organic phase comprising at least one organophosphorus extractant is added to the aqueous acidic solution. The at least one organophosphorus extractant comprises a compound having from one oxygen atom to three oxygen atoms bonded to a phosphorus atom and having one of the oxygen atoms bonded to the phosphorus atom through a phosphorus-oxygen double bond. Complexes are formed between the hexavalent actinide ions and the at least one organophosphorus extractant. The complexes are separated from the aqueous acidic solution. An additional method and a reaction system for removing actinides from an aqueous acidic solution are also disclosed.

Abstract: Systems and processes for reducing the volume of radioactive waste materials through pyrolysis and vitrification carried out by microwave heating and, in some instances, a combination of microwave heating and inductive heating. In some embodiments, the microwave-enhanced vitrification system comprises a microwave system for treating waste material combined with a modular vitrification system that uses inductive heating to vitrify waste material. The final product of the microwave-enhanced vitrification system is a denser, compacted radioactive waste product.

Abstract: An automatic synthesis device for fluorine-18-ACETATE ([18F]fluoroacetate) consists of a machinery housing that has multiple reactors and multiple raw material containers, and uses multiple control valves between each reactor and container, and operates the control valves through a control system to charge the raw material from each container to each reactor in an automatic and sequential fashion to execute the six procedures: fluorination, azeotropic dewatering, synthesis (reaction with precursors), purification and separation, hydrolysis and neutralization, purification and collection. The operation simply requires adding raw materials to the containers in advance, turning on power, charging reactive gases. In 50 minutes, the process to produce the product will be completed. The operation is really simple and can effectively improve production efficiency.

Abstract: The present invention relates to 18F radio-chemistry and in particular to a method for synthesising radiofluorinated amides and amines. The method of the invention has particular application in the radiosynthesis of a variety of 18F-labelled positron emission tomography (PET) tracers.

Abstract: The invention relates to a strontium-82/rubidium-82 generator, comprising a column filled with a cationic exchanger loaded with strontium-82, and having an inlet and an outlet, and a liquid medium, wherein parts of the column, inlet and outlet coming into contact with the liquid medium are iron-free, preferably metal-free, to a method for producing rubidium-82, and to the obtained diagnostic agent.

Abstract: Macro- and microfluidic devices and related technologies, and chemical processes using such devices. More specifically, the devices may be used for a fully automated synthesis of radioactive compounds for imaging, such as by positron emission tomography (PET), in an efficient, compact and safe to the operator manner. In particular, embodiments of the present invention relate to an automated, multi-run, microfluidic instrument for the multi-step synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals, such as PET probes, comprising a remote shielded mini-cell containing radiation-handing components.

Abstract: A dry conversion reactor for converting uranium hexafluoride to uranium dioxide, the dry conversion reactor including a gas-phase reaction segment and a fluidized bed segment, wherein at least one of the gas-phase reaction segment and the fluidized bed segment is a replaceable segment. A method for operating a dry conversion reactor utilizing a uranium hexafluoride to uranium dioxide conversion process, the method including replacing at least one conversion reactor segment.

Abstract: Methods and devices for a fully automated synthesis of radioactive compounds for imaging, such as by positron emission tomography (PET), in a fast, efficient and compact manner are disclosed. In particular, the various embodiments of the present invention provide an automated, stand-alone, hands-free operation of the entire radiosynthesis cycle on a microfluidic device with unrestricted gas flow through the reactor, starting with target water and yielding purified PET radiotracer within a period of time shorter than conventional chemistry systems. Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention is related to a microfluidic chip for radiosynthesis of a radiolabeled compound, comprising a reaction chamber, one or more flow channels connected to the reaction chamber, one or more vents connected to said reaction chamber, and one or more integrated valves to effect flow control in and out of said reaction chamber.

Abstract: The present invention provides a PET tracer that has improved properties for imaging the peripheral benzodiazepine receptor (PBR) as compared with known such PET tracers. The present invention also provides a precursor compound useful in the preparation of the PET tracer of the invention and methods for the preparation of said precursor compound and said PET tracer. Also provided by the present invention is a radiopharmaceutical composition comprising the PET tracer of the invention. Methods for using the PET tracer and the radiopharmaceutical composition are also provided.

Abstract: A microfluidic radiopharmaceutical production system and process for synthesizing per run approximately, but not less than, one (1) unit dose of a radiopharmaceutical biomarker for use in positron emission tomography (PET). The radiopharmaceutical production system includes a reaction vessel that receives a radioisotope from an accelerator or other radioisotope generator. Organic and aqueous reagents are introduced into the reaction vessel, and the mixture is heated to synthesize a solution of a pre-selected radiopharmaceutical. The radiopharmaceutical solution is purified by passing the solution through a solid phase extraction column and a filter. The synthesis process produces per run a quantity of radiopharmaceutical approximately equal to, but not less than, one (1) unit dose of a radiopharmaceutical, reducing waste and allowing for the production of radiopharmaceutical on an as-needed basis.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel compounds which may be used as in vivo imaging agents. The compounds of the invention are useful in a method to image the expression of P2X7 receptors in a subject, as a means to facilitate the diagnosis of a range of disease states.

Abstract: An apparatus (1) for preparing medicines containing radioactive substances, more specifically injectable medicines containing beta-emitting substances, in which a radioactive element is combined, in a mixture, with a protein to be labelled using the radioactive element; the mixture is then subjected to a chromatographic separation step which separates the mixture and isolates the medicine (16).

Abstract: Accelerated charged particles are provided by inductive amplification of particle energy in connection with a deflagration-mode plasma discharge. The deflagration mode discharge tends to increase particle energy relative to other operating modes. Inductive amplification of particle energy further increases output particle velocity. Inductive amplification can occur by formation of a current loop in the plasma discharge, and/or by a sudden increase in inductance due to collapse of the current distribution of the plasma discharge. Applications include particle therapy and production of radio-isotopes.

Abstract: Macro- and microfluidic devices and related technologies, and chemical processes using such devices. More specifically, the devices may be used for a fully automated synthesis of radioactive compounds for imaging, such as by positron emission tomography (PET), in an efficient, compact and safe to the operator manner. In particular, embodiments of the present invention relate to an automated, multi-run, microfluidic instrument for the multi-step synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals, such as PET probes, comprising a remote shielded mini-cell containing radiation-handing components.

Abstract: A method and device for reducing positron emitter isotope labeled CO2 to positron emitter isotope labeled CO generally includes introducing a volume of positron emitter isotope labeled CO2 into a first heated reaction vessel comprising a metal oxide, such as Iron (II) Oxide such that the CO2 is reduced to CO upon contact with the Iron (II) Oxide. The volume is then transferred to a second reaction vessel to remove any un-reacted CO2, preferably, via a soda-lime trap. The volume is then transferred to a target, e.g., a storage vessel or subject. The CO2 includes one of [11C] or [15O]. The first reaction vessel is, preferably, heated to a temperature of between 900 and 1000° C., and more preferably, to between 925 and 975° C., and even more preferably, to approximately 950° C. Preferably, the Iron (II) Oxide powdered and has a particle size of about ?10 mesh.

Abstract: A microfluidic reactor cartridge having glass capillary tubing wound in a coil and surrounded by a ceramic housing capable use in high temperatures and method for using same. In another embodiment, the microfluidic cartridge is a serpentine reactor cartridge with a serpentine microreactor channel formed in a ceramic housing. The serpentine reactor cartridge has an inlet tube attached to its inlet port and an outlet tube attached to its outlet port. The inlet port is a macro/micro interface and the outlet port is a micro/macro interface useful in gas phase reactions where solids must be used to produce a reactant. The method for using a microfluidic reactor cartridge includes two phases, the first phase for producing a radioactive labeled gas such as methyl iodide and the second phase is a methylation reaction.

Abstract: The present application relates to microfluidic devices and related technologies, and to chemical processes using such devices. More specifically, the application discloses a fully automated synthesis of radioactive compounds for imaging, such as by positron emission tomography (PET), in a fast, efficient and compact manner. In particular, this application describe an automated, stand-alone, microfluidic instrument for the multi-step chemical synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals, such as probes for PET and a method of using such instruments.

Abstract: An apparatus and system for separating remaining powder of hulls includes a first remaining powder separating unit to be supplied with hulls of a spent nuclear fuel subjected to a high-temperature oxidation, and to include a first brush for separating remaining powder of the hulls; a hull alignment unit to be supplied with the hulls from the first remaining powder separating unit, and to align the hulls; a second remaining powder separating unit to be supplied with the aligned hulls from the hull alignment unit, and to include a second brush for separating remaining powder adhered on an inner peripheral surface of the hulls; and a third remaining powder separating unit to be supplied with the hulls from the second remaining powder separating unit, and to separate the remaining powder remaining on the inner/outer peripheral surface of the hulls by using air.

Abstract: This invention provides a dripping nozzle device to produce ADU particles with good sphericity, a device for recovering a feedstock liquid to prepare a uniform feedstock liquid, a device for supplying a feedstock liquid to form drops with a uniform volume, a device for solidifying the surfaces of drops so that the drops will not deform easily when they fall onto and hit the surface of an aqueous ammonia solution, a device for circulating an aqueous ammonia solution so that the uranyl nitrate in the drops can be changed to ammonium diuranate completely, to such an extent that uranyl nitrate in the center of each drop is changed to ammonium diuranate, and an apparatus for producing ammonium diuranate particles with good sphericity. The dripping nozzle device is provided with a single vibrator to vibrate nozzles simultaneously. The device for recovering a feedstock liquid recovers the feedstock liquid remaining in the nozzles and mixes it with a fresh feedstock liquid.

Abstract: The invention relates to a process for preparation of a compound of formula (I): R1 is selected from C1-6alkyl, C2-6alkenyl, and C2-6alkynyl; which comprises: (i) reaction with fluoride, suitably [18F]fluoride, of a corresponding compound of formula (II): wherein R2 is selected from hydrogen, C1-10alkyl, C1-10haloalkyl, C6-14aryl, C6-14arylalkyl, —(CH2CH2O)q—CH3 wherein q is an integer of from 1 to 10; R1 is as defined for the compound of formula (I); and R3 is a leaving group. Certain novel precursors of formula (II) and radiopharmaceutical kits containing such precursors are also claimed.

Abstract: The invention relates to the treatment of carbon-containing radioactive waste. It particularly envisages: a first type of waste treatment to obtain a carbon oxide, and a second type of treatment to obtain a solid precipitate of the carbon oxide by reacting with a selected element. A method according to the invention comprises: a first step during which both the first and second type of treatment are applied, and a second step during which only the first type of treatment is applied.

Abstract: An apparatus for the removal of uranium from a body of material is provided. The apparatus has at least one ultrasonic extractor, having a bottom and a top. The at least one ultrasonic extractor is configured to accept solids at the bottom and acid at the top, and has a mixing screw and at least one source of ultrasonic energy. The mixing screw is configured to transport the solids in a direction countercurrent to the acid in the at least one ultrasonic extractor; and the source of ultrasonic energy is configured to impart ultrasonic energy into the solids and the acid, as the solids and the acid traverse the at least one ultrasonic extractor countercurrently.

Abstract: A solid composition comprises: —MnO2; and—a compound represented by the general formula (I) wherein: R is a polymer; each Y is independently a hydrogen or a negative charge; Z is either hydrogen or is not present; each n is independently 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6; wherein the MnO2 is bound to the compound of formula (I) so as to coat the surface thereof. Such a composition may be used for the separation of polyvalent metal species, such as Mo, from one or more accompanying impurities.

Abstract: An apparatus for encapsulating waste material (e.g radioactive sludge from nuclear processing plant) in a container (e.g Nirex box) for long term storage, comprising: a first storage vessel, for holding sludge; a second storage vessel, for holding encapsulation medium (e.g. cement based grout); an inline mixer (e.g. a static inline mixer), coupled for receiving sludge, and coupled to the second storage vessel, and producing, in use, a mixture of the sludge and grout; wherein the inline mixer is arranged for filling the container. Preferably, a dewatering unit (e.g. HydroTrans based), coupled for receiving sludge and outputting dewatered sludge to be mixed by the inline mixer. An encapsulation system comprising the encapsulation apparatus, and corresponding encapsulation methods, are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present application is generally directed to microfluidic devices and methods for the achievement and assessment of chemical and radiochemical purity of (microfluidic) radio-synthesis products. More particularly, the current application relates to systems for purification and analysis of radiochemical products yielded by microfluidic synthesis devices.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is provided an evaporator/calciner in which hazardous materials, such as radioactive liquids, are converted into chemically stable, solid forms by evaporating, drying and calcination within a single vessel, that can then be sealed and used for long term storage.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for facilitating the synthesis of compounds in a batch device are presented. Application of the batch type microfluidic devices to the synthesis of radiolabeled compounds is described. These methods and apparatus enable the selective introduction of multiple reagents via an enhanced rotary flow distribution valve through a single inlet port of the synthetic device. The sequential introduction of multiple reagents through a single inlet port allows an optimal delivery of highly concentrated reagents into the reactor and facilitates the synthesis of the desired products with a minimal loss of materials during transfers, which is critical to the synthesis of radiolabeled biomarkers.

Abstract: Methods and devices for removing inflammable gases produced by radiolysis in a closed chamber containing radioactive matters comprising organic compounds and possibly water, or radioactive matters in the presence of organic compounds and possibly water. Inside the chamber there may be placed a catalyst of at least one reaction for oxidizing the inflammable gases by oxygen contained in the chamber atmosphere, supported by an inert solid support; a catalyst of at least the reaction for oxidizing CO to CO2; possibly an oxygen source; and possibly a hygroscopic microporous inert solid support. Also, chambers for radioactive matters containing such devices.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for producing customized, predictable and reproducible supplies of radioisotopes using, for example, a reactor housing that is fabricated from a radioactive shielding material and has both an internal volume and a surface that comprises an entry port and an exit port, a chromatographic column that is positioned within said internal volume such that a first end of said column is in fluid communication with said entry port and a second end of said column is in fluid communication with said exit port, and a changeable filter module that is disposed external to said reactor housing and in fluid communication with said exit port.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for facilitating the synthesis of compounds in a nonflow-through device are presented. Application of the nonflow-through methods and microfluidic devices to the synthesis of radiolabeled compounds is described. These methods and apparatus enable the introduction of a pressurized gas through a tangential slit into a vortex reactor of the nonflow-through device, while one or more liquids are delivered to the reaction chamber through the same or different inlet ports. The introduction of the pressurized gas produces a cyclonic motion of the mixture within the reactor. Such a mechanism may be used to facilitate the evaporation of various liquids within the reactor at lower temperatures, thus reducing the production of unwanted byproducts that are associated with the use of high temperatures. In addition, thorough mixing of various liquids may be effected rapidly while allowing chemical reactions to take place efficiently within the vortex reactor.

Abstract: The vessel of the invention includes a side wall and an end wall, and is characterized in that the end wall is a domed end wall, of thickness EI including an inner layer CI providing corrosion resistance and an outer layer CE of thickness EE at least equal to the thickness EI of the inner layer CI. The inner and outer layers are rigidly joined by a first assembly device. Inner layer CI is formed from a multilayer material including an internal layer CI for providing corrosion resistance and an external layer CIS, the internal CIC and the external CIS layers being rigidly joined by a second assembly device. The invention enables inexpensive manufacture of large vessels.

Abstract: Disclosed are improved methods and apparatus for radiolabeling, particularly methods and apparatus for large scale in-line radiolabeling of products, such as proteins and antibodies.

Abstract: Methods and reagents for photo-initiated carbonylation with carbon-isotope labeled carbon monoxide using alkyl/aryl iodides with alcohols pretreated by a base are provided. The resultant carbon-isotope labeled esters are useful as radiopharmaceuticals, especially for use in Positron Emission Tomography (PET). Associated kits for PET studies are also provided.