Flexible options for radionuclidic identity and purity with the Spec-RAM range
9 July 2024
At a glance
> In this video, we give a comprehensive overview of the Spec-RAM range of gamma spectrometers.
> Both the original model and new Spec-RAM CZT are designed for measuring radionuclidic identity and purity.
> The Spec-RAM CZT is designed specifically as a benchtop solution without compromising on performance using a new CZT detector.
> The range provides users with an affordable alternative to costly HPGe detectors and can operate at ambient room temperatures.
A side-by-side comparison
The original Spec-RAM and new Spec-RAM CZT have been designed to measure the radionuclidic identity and purity of radiopharmaceuticals, with key design features developed specifically in response to the needs of the industry as new therapeutics emerge. This provides users with flexible options to fulfil their specific requirements. In this latest video, Product Specialist Alexander Janus talks us through both the similarities and key differences of the two gamma spectrometers.
What’s the different between the two?
The original Spec-RAM has a fully integrated scintillation detector and multichannel analyser with up to 2048 channels. The detector is available as either a solid planar NaI(TI) or a well-type to provide almost complete solid angle coverage of the radioactive source. Both of these detectors are available in 2” or 3” specifications to accommodate a range of different vial sizes, which are interchangeable with the MCA module to optimise the Spec-RAM for specific applications.
By contrast, the new Spec-RAM CZT uses a Cadmium Zinc Telluride detector. This is highly sensitive to gamma rays because of the high atomic numbers of Cd and Te, with an energy resolution (FWHM) of <2.5 % compared to traditional scintillation detectors. This allows for a smaller scintillation crystal, which in turn, leads to a much smaller instrument. This difference in size is the most obvious difference between the two models.
Unlike the original Spec-RAM which is a floor-mounted solution, the new CZT system is designed specifically as a benchtop solution to save space and weighs less than half. Despite its small size, there is no compromise on performance with the new CZT detectors providing high sensitivity across an energy range between 20 keV and 3 MeV, making it the ideal solution for the identification of impurities at a higher resolution.
So, what’s similar?
One of the most remarkable things about both models is that they are designed to operate at ambient room temperatures, meaning there is no requirement for hazardous liquid nitrogen or electric cryostat cooling. This offers a safe, cost-effective alternative to HPGe detectors, providing the necessary energy response for gamma-emitting radiopharmaceuticals. Other design similarities include a copper liner to attenuate low energy background counts and modular lead shielding, allowing easy assembly on-site.
Like all of LabLogic’s instruments, the Spec-RAMs are controlled by our marketing leading software, Laura Radiopharma. Adhering to global regulations such as FDA 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11, it provides users with a compliant solution with full audit trails, electronic, signatures, secure databases, and more.
Find out more
You can learn more about the Spec-RAM range by watching our latest video or clicking the button below to speak to a product specialist directly.