Neutron sources for BNCT using low-power research reactors or compact charged particle accelerators

Abstract

Since 1986, the Idaho National Engineering Laboratory (INEL) has been involved in the development of epithermal neutron sources for BNCT. The INEL effort was instrumental in the implementation of an epithermal neutron beam at the Brookhaven Medical Research Reactor at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Recently, the INEL's effort has been directed toward developing advanced filter designs for use with low- power research reactors such as the 250W and 1MW class TRIGA reactors which are located at various sites and universities throughout the world. This work has focused on utilizing advanced filter materials that more effectively reduce fast neutron contamination in the epithermal neutron beam and at the same time optimize neutron economy. The INEL has also been involved in developing two concepts of producing neutron sources for BNCT using charged particle accelerators. The first concept involves the use of an electron accelerator/photoneutron source. The second concept involves the use of a charged particle beam in which the particle energy is just above the threshold energy of the reaction. This paper will review the progress made by INEL in modifying the WSU TRIGA reactor and conceptual development of an electron accelerator based photoneutron source for BNCT. The near threshold particle accelerator development will be discussed in a separate paper.