The NP Imager is specifically designed to measure the dynamics of radiochemical separation processes in real time. Developed under a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant from the Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Physics (NP), the NP Imager focuses on the unique needs of radiochemists and technicians separating radioisotopes for radio-pharmaceuticals and other applications.
The NP Imager monitors the locations and distributions of multiple isotopes over time, allowing the radiochemist and technician to monitor separation processes in real time. In the process shown here, NP Imager measured Lu-177 and Yb-175 separation on a column over the course of 3 ½ hours using 10-minute exposures. Note that it’s clear when the Yb-175 has been removed from the column, allowing the radiochemist to know when to collect the desired Lu-177.
Applications
- Radiopharmaceutical Process Monitoring
- Radiochemical Separation Research and Development
- Nuclear Physics Isotope Production
- Nuclear Materials Management
- Waste Management
- Decontamination and Decommissioning
