Abstract
Abstract
In order to enhance the performance and lifetime of the
lithium target used in accelerator-based neutron sources for Boron
Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) treatment, an exploration of target
design was conducted based on the 2.8 MeV, 20 mA proton beam. A
comparison between scanning magnets and octupole magnets was
performed for beam uniform, with octupole magnets selected to
effectively avoid localized high thermal densities over short
durations. Exploration was conducted on the performance of tantalum
and vanadium as interlayers within the lithium target, considering
aspects such as cooling, hydrogen diffusion, and neutron
performances. This study revealed that, as the majority of energy
deposition occurs within the interlayer, the presence of an
appropriately thick tantalum or vanadium interlayer has minimal
impact on cooling effectiveness, ensuring temperatures remain below
144 °C. The addition of an interlayer effectively reduces
the maximum hydrogen concentration in copper, thus preventing copper
blistering. Within the investigated thickness range, the interlayer
does not affect neutron spectrum in the forward direction of the
target, mitigating concerns regarding its impact on beam shaping.