Explora GPU

The Siemens Explora® family of radiochemistry modules offers a comprehensive line of products for efficient PET compound preparation. All modules are computer controlled using a Windows®-based graphical user interface, offering both convenience and flexibility.

The Explora GPU is a general purpose gas processing module which provides for conversion of ¹⁵O-O₂ to carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide and also converts ¹¹C-CO₂ to CO. The GPU also serves as a gas product switchyard, connecting both ¹⁵O and ¹¹C gas targets to one or two other destinations (Siemens chemistry modules or user supplied equipment) each.

The Explora GPU components are mounted inside the cyclotron shields allowing easy accessible transfers of all substances, obviating the need for dedicated hot cell space. Made simply and reliably, the GPU requires minimal maintenance.

Reaction Method
The primary components of the Explora GPU are two furnaces containing activated carbon. One furnace contains activated carbon and copper powder for CO₂ production. The other furnace contains activated carbon only, followed by a soda lime trap. Stainless steel tubing and computer-controlled solenoid valves route the gases through the appropriate components.

Each carbon reaction vessel consists of a quartz tube with O-ring seals on each end and is surrounded at the midsection by a cylindrical ceramic furnace containing an electrical resistance heating element. A temperature sensor is located within each furnace and is connected to a temperature controller appropriate catalysts.

The first furnace operates at 500 °C and converts ¹⁵O-O₂ to ¹⁵O-CO₂. The second furnace operates at 950 °C and converts either ¹¹C-CO₂ to ¹¹C-CO or ¹⁵O-CO₂ to ¹⁵O-CO. The outlet of the second furnace passes through a small soda lime trap to remove residual CO₂.

Documents
  Data Sheet[122 KB]