Optimized beam shaping assembly for a 2.1-MeV proton-accelerator-based neutron source for boron neutron capture therapy

Sci Rep. 2021 Apr 7;11(1):7576. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-87305-9.

Abstract

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is facing a new era where different projects based on accelerators instead of reactors are under development. The new facilities can be placed at hospitals and will increase the number of clinical trials. The therapeutic effect of BNCT can be improved if a optimized epithermal neutron spectrum is obtained, for which the beam shape assembly is a key ingredient. In this paper we propose an optimal beam shaping assembly suited for an affordable low energy accelerator. The beam obtained with the device proposed accomplishes all the IAEA recommendations for proton energies between 2.0 and 2.1 MeV. In addition, there is an overall improvement of the figures of merit with respect to BNCT facilities and previous proposals of new accelerator-based facilities.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Boron Neutron Capture Therapy / instrumentation*
  • Boron Neutron Capture Therapy / statistics & numerical data
  • Computer Simulation
  • Equipment Design
  • Humans
  • Neutrons*
  • Particle Accelerators / instrumentation*
  • Particle Accelerators / statistics & numerical data
  • Phantoms, Imaging
  • Protons*
  • Radiotherapy Dosage

Substances

  • Protons