Future of Accelerator Based BNCT Neutron Irradiation System using Liquid Lithium Target

—The Usage of Neutrons from ⁷Li(p,n)⁷Be Near Threshold Reactions—

Abstract

The future of accelerator-based (Acc-based) neutron irradiation system (NIS) for boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) using liquid lithium target was studied especially for the usage of neutrons from ⁷Li(p,n)⁷Be near threshold reactions. The next generation of NIS for BNCT is envisioned to have a non-invasive dose monitoring system during clinical BNCT performed at a downtown hospital. A liquid lithium film flow for the neutron producing target for BNCT has been established. The combination of a long-life neutron producing target such as a liquid lithium target and a stable proton accelerator such as RFQ is evaluated as a promising candidate for this future system. A new design standard for an Acc-based NIS for BNCT derived from the viewpoints of secondary cancer induced by BNCT, was proposed.