Liquid Li based neutron source for BNCT and science application

Area of Science:

• Nuclear physics
• Medical physics
• Materials science

Background:

• Liquid lithium (Li) is a versatile material with applications in neutron sources, space propulsion, and particle accelerators.
• Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) requires epithermal neutrons to minimize patient radiation dose.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the use of a liquid lithium target for generating epithermal neutrons for BNCT.
• To optimize neutron production and moderation for medical applications.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the (7)Li(p,n)(7)Be threshold reaction at 1.88 MeV with 2.5 MeV protons.
• Employing a high-velocity thin film flow of liquid lithium to manage heat dissipation.
• Using electrostatic accelerators (Schnkel or tandem) for proton acceleration.
• Implementing a dedicated moderator assembly to achieve epithermal neutron energies and suppress gamma rays.

Main Results:

• Protons at 2.5 MeV penetrate 0.25 mm into the lithium layer, generating heat near the surface.
• Neutrons are produced at 0.6 MeV and subsequently moderated to epithermal energies.
• The system is designed to minimize accompanying gamma-ray emission.

Conclusions:

• A liquid lithium target system is feasible for producing epithermal neutrons for BNCT.
• The proposed method offers a way to generate neutrons with reduced patient dose.
• High-velocity thin film flow is crucial for the stable operation of the liquid lithium target.