UROP Research Project
May 2023 - May 2024
May 2023 - May 2024
Positron emission tomography (PET) is a clinical imaging technique that uses small molecules tagged with short-lived radioactive isotopes (tracers) to illuminate body tissues and processes to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of human diseases. Due to the radioactivity associated with PET tracers, they are usually prepared using automated radiochemistry modules to shield workers from radioactivity. Commercially available radiochemistry modules are usually very expensive and difficult to repair. The goal of this project was to design, build, and test a low-cost, open-source alternative to commercial radiochemistry modules that is easily customized and maintained by the end user. We set out to design a radiochemistry system from scratch that could 1) distribute cyclotron produced fluorine-18 across multiple reaction vials; 2) rapidly heat and cool reaction vials individually or simultaneously; 3) add multiple reagents to reaction vials in variable amounts to allow for multiplexed reaction screening. To date, CAD designs for modular boxes and box assembly clips, along with cases for syringe pumps, multi-position valves, and regulators, have been finalized and 3D printed. Using a visual programming application Node-RED on a Raspberry Pi, an Arduino, and a relay board, we have programmed control of a syringe pump, multi-position valve, vacuum pumps, and regulators for both liquid and gas distribution. We have also constructed circuit boards between the relay, vacuum pumps, regulators, and Arduino. Future work will consist of programming heating elements and cooling mechanisms, and continuing to integrate parts so testing can begin on the first iteration of our module design.