Advances in Materials for Strontium–Yttrium Separation: A Comprehensive Review

Yttrium-90 (90Y) is a pivotal pure beta-emitting radionuclide extensively employed in the targeted therapy of malignant tumors, such as hepatocellular carcinoma and lymphoma. The 90Sr-90Y generator system represents the most effective method for producing no-carrier-added (NCA) 90Y to meet escalating clinical demands. However, safe clinical application necessitates the stringent separation of its parent isotope, 90Sr, which poses significant radiotoxicological risks due to its long half-life and bone-seeking behavior. This review comprehensively summarizes recent advances in solid-phase adsorbent materials developed for the high-efficiency separation of Y3+ and Sr2+. We systematically analyze the design strategies, molecular recognition mechanisms, and performance evaluation metrics of various functional systems. Key materials discussed include extraction chromatography (EXC) resins based on organophosphorus extractants, diglycolamide (DGA) derivatives, and crown ethers, as well as inorganic ion exchangers such as antimony-based materials, manganese oxides, and zeolite-like molecular sieves. Special attention is given to composite modification strategies, including silica-based and polymer-matrix composites, and metal doping techniques aimed at enhancing radiation resistance, acid stability, and Sr-Y separation factors (SF). Finally, we provide an outlook on the future development of next-generation 90Sr-90Y generator materials, highlighting the imperative of transitioning from idealized simulated environments to robust, field-ready applications.