Preparation and use of alkylating agents

A system comprising a synthesis module and a computer comprising (i) at least one processor, (ii) a memory and (iii) at least one program, wherein the at least one program is stored in the memory and executable by the at least one processor, the at least one program comprising instructions to control said synthesis module, wherein:

• a. said instructions direct said computer to control said synthesis module, wherein said synthesis module comprises a reaction vessel, and said control of said synthesis module comprises executing the synthesis of an alkylating agent, wherein said alkylating agent has the formula:
• X—(CR1R2)aCR3R4-LG
• wherein,
• a is an integer from 0 to 2,
• R1, R2, R3, and R4 are independently H or X,
• X is a halogen or a label, with the proviso that at least one X is 18F, and LG is a leaving group;
• and
• b. said instructions direct said computer to control said synthesis module to react in said reaction vessel said alkylating agent with a target compound under conditions suitable for alkylation of said target compound, wherein said alkylation occurs without first isolating said alkylating agent and wherein synthesis of said alkylating agent occurs at a temperature from about 40° C. to about 50° C.