Validation of an extraction paper chromatography (EPC) technique for estimation of trace levels of 90Sr in 90Y solutions obtained from 90Sr/90Y generator systems

While the extraction paper chromatography (EPC) technique constitutes a novel paradigm for the determination of few Becquerels of ⁹⁰Sr in MBq quantities of ⁹⁰Y obtained from ⁹⁰Sr/⁹⁰Y generator, validation of the technique is essential to ensure its usefulness as a real time analytical tool. With a view to explore the relevance and applicability of EPC technique as a real time quality control (QC) technique for the routine estimation of ⁹⁰Sr content in generator produced ⁹⁰Y, a systematic validation study was carried out diligently not only to establish its worthiness but also to broaden its horizon. The ability of the EPC technique to separate trace amounts of Sr²⁺ in the presence of large amounts of Y³⁺ was verified. The specificity of the technique for Y³⁺ was demonstrated with ⁹⁰Y obtained by neutron irradiation. The method was validated under real experimental conditions and compared with a QC method described in US Pharmacopeia for detection of ⁹⁰Sr levels in ⁹⁰Y radiopharmaceuticals.