DOSE EFFECT OF THE 33S(n,α) 30SI REACTION IN BNCT USING THE NEW n_TOF-CERN DATA

Radiat Prot Dosimetry. 2018 Aug 1;180(1-4):342-345. doi: 10.1093/rpd/ncx178.

Abstract

33S is a stable isotope of sulphur which is being studied as a potential cooperative target for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) in accelerator-based neutron sources because of its large (n,α) cross section in the epithermal neutron energy range. Previous measurements resolved the resonances with a discrepant description of the lowest-lying and strongest one (at 13.5 keV). However, the evaluations of the major databases do not include resonances, except EAF-2010 which shows smaller values in this range than the experimental data. Furthermore, the glaring lack of data below 10 keV down to thermal (25.3 meV) has motivated a new measurement at n_TOF at CERN in order to cover the whole energy range. The inclusion of this new 33S(n,α) cross section in Monte Carlo simulations provides a more accurate estimation of the deposited kerma rate in tissue due to the presence of 33S. The results of those simulations represent the goal of this work.

MeSH terms

  • Boron Neutron Capture Therapy / methods*
  • Computer Simulation
  • Humans
  • Isotopes / analysis*
  • Isotopes / chemistry
  • Monte Carlo Method
  • Neutrons*
  • Radiation Protection
  • Radiometry / instrumentation
  • Radiometry / methods*
  • Radiotherapy Dosage
  • Silicon / analysis*
  • Silicon / chemistry
  • Sulfur Radioisotopes / analysis*
  • Sulfur Radioisotopes / chemistry

Substances

  • Isotopes
  • Silicon-30
  • Sulfur Radioisotopes
  • Silicon