Towards the final BSA modeling for the accelerator-driven BNCT facility at INFN LNL

Area of Science:

• Nuclear Physics
• Medical Physics
• Accelerator Technology

Background:

• The SPES-BNCT project at INFN Legnaro National Laboratories (LNL) focuses on developing an accelerator-driven thermal neutron beam facility.
• This facility is intended for the experimental treatment of extended skin melanoma using Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT).

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the final modeling of the Beam Shaping Assembly (BSA) for the SPES-BNCT project.
• To integrate recent advancements in accelerator technology and neutron yield measurements into the BSA design.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a compact neutron source generated via (9)Be(p,xn) reactions.
• Employing a 5 MeV, 30 mA proton beam from a newly constructed RFQ accelerator directed at a beryllium target.
• Performing final modeling of the Beam Shaping Assembly (BSA) incorporating neutron converters and detailed Be(p,xn) neutron yield spectra.

Main Results:

• Recent measurements of Be(p,xn) neutron yield spectra at 5 MeV have been incorporated.
• The construction of the RFQ accelerator modules has been completed.
• The final modeling of the BSA, crucial for the BNCT facility, is presented.

Conclusions:

• Significant progress has been made in the SPES-BNCT project towards an operational accelerator-driven neutron source.
• The final BSA modeling represents a key step in realizing the BNCT facility for melanoma treatment.
• The integration of new experimental data enhances the accuracy and feasibility of the proposed neutron beam facility.