Production of 11C-labelled n-hexane for use in positron emission imaging

Supported ruthenium catalysts have been used for the prodn. of 11C-labeled n-hexane via a surface reaction carried out at two different temps. The process involves high temp. adsorption of 11CO, resulting in the prodn. of reactive 11C1 surface species; this is followed by rapid cooling to a much lower temp. at which 1-pentene is adsorbed. The resultant surface species are then hydrogenated at the same temp. producing 11C-labeled hydrocarbons, including n-hexane, which are concd. and sepd. by online gas chromatog. By injecting the 11C-labeled n-hexane into a catalytic reactor working under steady state conditions it is possible to use positron emission imaging to study reactions inside a working reactor