Quantitative fluorographic detection of 3H and 14C on two-dimensional thin-layer chromatographic sheets by an ultra-high-sensitivity TV camera system.

A method for quantitative detection of 3H and 14C on thin layers is described. After impregnation of the TLC sheet with 50% 2,5-diphenyloxazole-tetrahydrofuran, quantitative imaging of the distribution of weak beta-ray-emitting isotopes on the chromatogram was carried out at room temperature by using a TV camera system, which consisted of a two-stage microchannel plate image intensifier, a low-lag vidicon, and an image processor. The method is applicable for 14C- and 3H-labeled samples on TLC sheets (10 X 10 cm) emitting more than 0.17 and 7.5 Bq/mm2, respectively. The method is rapid and has a dynamic range far greater than that of film.