Semi-automated 86Y purification using a three-column system.

The separation of (86)Y from (86)Sr was optimized by a semi-automated purification system involving the passage of the target sample through three sequential columns. The target material was dissolved in 4 N HNO(3) and loaded onto a Sr-selective (Sr-Spec) column to retain the (86)Sr. The yttrium was eluted with 4 N HNO(3) onto the second Y-selective (RE-Spec) column with quantitative retention.