An accelerator-based neutron source for fast neutron brachytherapy

摘要

~7Li(p, n), ~9Be(p, n) and ~9Be(d, n) reactions can be good netron sources for interstitial or intracavity treatment of soild tumors. Dosimetry simulations and heat transfer calculations indicated that dose rate must be limited by heat removal from the target. A tube-in-tube prototype has been constructed. The target will be placed at the bottom of the inner tube. The accelerator beam hits the target though the inner tube, generating neutrons. Cooling water runs between the tubes to carry away the heat generated in the target. The outer tube diameter is 6 mm. The inner tube diameter is 3 mm. The length of insertion is 10 cm allowing for interstitial or intracavity irradiation. Experiments are being performed to verify the heat removal from the target using a tandem electrostatic accelerator beam as the neat source with the neutron producting target absent.