Development of a tandem-electrostatic-quadrupole accelerator facility for BNCT.

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics and Engineering
• Medical Physics
• Accelerator Science

Background:

• Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is an advanced cancer treatment.
• Accelerator-based (AB) BNCT offers a promising alternative to reactor-based methods.
• Developing compact and efficient accelerators is crucial for widespread AB-BNCT adoption.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the ongoing development of a tandem-electrostatic-quadrupole (TESQ) accelerator facility for AB-BNCT.
• To detail the design specifications required for effective neutron production for BNCT.
• To outline the technological approach for a cost-effective and simple electrostatic accelerator solution.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual design and simulation of a folded TESQ accelerator.
• 3D finite element analysis for electrostatic fields and acceleration tube.
• Investigation of electrostatic quadrupole (ESQ) modules and beam transport.

Main Results:

• The TESQ facility is designed to deliver 30 mA of 2.4 MeV protons.
• The (7)Li(p,n)(7)Be reaction is optimized for producing clean epithermal neutron beams.
• Simulations confirm the capability of accelerating a 30 mA proton beam to 2.4 MeV.

Conclusions:

• The developed TESQ accelerator is a technologically simple and cost-effective solution for AB-BNCT.
• The facility design meets the specifications for rapid and effective BNCT treatment of deep-seated tumors.
• Ongoing work includes targetry, beam shaping, and treatment room considerations.