Optimization of an accelerator-based epithermal neutron source for neutron capture therapy

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics
• Medical Physics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) requires precisely controlled neutron beams.
• Proton accelerators offer a potential route to generating neutrons for BNCT.
• The (7)Li(p,n)(7)Be reaction is a viable neutron source for accelerator-based BNCT.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the optimal moderator material and size for generating epithermal neutron beams for BNCT.
• To design an effective beam shaping assembly for a specific proton accelerator.

Main Methods:

• Computational modeling was employed to investigate various moderator configurations.
• The (7)Li(p,n)(7)Be reaction was used as the neutron source in the simulations.
• An optimal beam shaping assembly design was proposed using polytetrafluoroethylene and magnesium fluorine.

Main Results:

• The study identified an optimal configuration for the beam shaping assembly.
• The proposed design is intended for use with the high current IPPE proton accelerator KG-2.5.
• Simulation results were validated through experimental testing, showing good agreement.

Conclusions:

• The developed modeling approach successfully identified an optimal configuration for BNCT neutron beams.
• The suggested beam shaping assembly design is suitable for experimental implementation.
• Experimental validation confirms the accuracy of the modeling investigation.