New data for the definition of neutron beams for Boron Neutron capture therapy. (August 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Macías, M.; Fernández, B.; Praena, J.
• Is Part Of: Radiation physics and chemistry. Volume 185(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-08
• Subjects: Accelerator-based neutron source -- Time-of-Flight technique -- Pulsed ion beams -- Boron neutron capture therapy -- Beam shaping assembly -- IAEA figures of merit; Radiation chemistry -- Periodicals; Radiometry -- Periodicals; Radiation -- Periodicals; Chimie sous rayonnement -- Périodiques; 539.2
• DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2021.109474
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0969-806X

Abstract

Abstract: Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is neutron radiotherapy used to treat tumours cells previously doped with Boron-10. This therapy requires an epithermal neutron beam for the treatment of deep tumours and a thermal beam for shallow ones. Thanks to recent high-current commercial accelerators, Accelerator-Based Neutron Sources (ABNS) are a competitive option for providing therapeutic neutron beams in hospitals. In this work, the neutron field generated by the 7 Li (p, n) 7 Be reaction at 1950 keV is studied as a neutron source in ABNS, being measured by the Time-Of-Flight (TOF) technique at HiSPANoS facility (Spain). Moreover, two Beam Shaping Assemblies (BSA) for deep and shallow tumour treatment, which are specially designed for the 1950 keV neutron field, are evaluated for BNCT via Monte Carlo simulations (MCNP). Results in agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) figures of merit endorse the use of this neutron field for BNCT. Highlights: The neutron field generated by the 7Li (p, n)7Be reaction at 1950 keV is studied as accelerator-based neutron source. The 1950 keV neutron field was measured at HiSPANoS-TOF, the unique neutron Time-Of-Flight facility in Spain. Two Beam Shaping Assemblies are specially designed for the 1950 keV neutron field. Neutron fluxes in agreement with the IAEA figures of merit for BCNT. The resulting neutron beams suggest a therapeutic result for BNCT.