Separation of Tc-99m by means of radiation-grafted membranes

The characterization and possibility of the practical use of different poly meric materials for the purpose of radioactive isotope separation from thei r wastes were studied. The influence of chemical treatment on the chelation or adsorption capacity at 25 degreesC was investigated. The equilibrium sw elling of these polymers in distilled water at room temperature and the eff ect of solvent composition on the graft yield were also explored. In this s tudy, the mechanical, chemical resistance and other properties for the graf ted, untreated, and treated membranes were investigated. The performance of the membranes was studied as a function of time and degree of grafting. Th e effects of chemical treatment on the initial activity and separation of T c-99m have also been examined. The base polymer and degree of grafting have great influence on the Tc uptake. (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.