Design of a BNCT irradiation room based on proton accelerator and beryllium target. (November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Magni, Chiara; Postuma, Ian; Ferrarini, Michele; Protti, Nicoletta; Fatemi, Setareh; Gong, Chunhui; Anselmi-Tamburini, Umberto; Vercesi, Valerio; Battistoni, Giuseppe; Altieri, Saverio; Bortolussi, Silva
• Is Part Of: Applied radiation and isotopes. Volume 165(2020:Nov.)
• Publication Date: 2020-11
• Subjects: BNCT -- Accelerator-based BNCT -- Neutron activation -- Radiation protection -- Dosimetry; Radiology -- Periodicals; Radiation -- Industrial applications -- Periodicals; Nuclear chemistry -- Periodicals; Internet resource; Periodical; 660.298
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2020.109314
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0969-8043

Abstract

Abstract: Preliminary studies for the design of an accelerator-based BNCT clinical facility are presented. The Beam Shaping Assembly neutron activation was evaluated experimentally and with Monte Carlo simulations. The activations of patient, air and walls in the room, the absorbed doses by the patient and the in-air dose distributions were evaluated. Based on these calculations, different walls compositions were tested to optimize the environmental conditions. Borated concrete, advantageously reducing the thermal flux in the room, was proven the best choice. Highlights: Radiation protection in Boron Neutron Capture Therapy facilities is crucial. Preliminary studies for a facility with a high-intensity epithermal neutron beam. Evaluation of neutron activations of Beam Shaping Assembly, air and patient. Calculation of dose distributions in the room air and in the patient healthy organs. Boron-loaded concrete helpfully reduces dosimetry and activations.