High-energy Electron Beam Research Articles

Degradation of piroxicam and celecoxib from aqueous solution by high-energy electron beam as a Sustainable method

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs that can reduce pain. This study aimed to measure the concentration of piroxicam and celecoxib in Iranian hospitals, as well as the effect of electron beam irradiation on the degradation of these pollutants in synthetic and real samples. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to detect the residual analytes in the samples. The Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to design the experiment conditions that investigate the effect of electron beam irradiation on degradation of piroxicam and celecoxib from synthetic samples, and then according to the optimum condition, the experiments were carried out for real wastewater samples. The results of wastewater analysis shown that the mean concentration of PIRO and CELE were 6.32 ± 2.5 and 11.5 ± 3.2 μg/L, respectively. Also, the findings show that 98.98 % and 97.62 % of piroxicam and celecoxib was degraded, respectively, when the optimum conditions (pH = 4, electron beam irradiation = 8 kGy, and concentrations of 60 μg/L for piroxicam and 50 μg/L for celecoxib) were applied. Results show that the degradation rates of piroxicam and celecoxib in the real wastewater sample at optimum condition were 89.6 % and 84.25 %, respectively. So, electron beam irradiation is a long-lasting and promising method for removal emerging contaminants from wastewater, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, that can't be removed by conventional wastewater treatment methods; so, it can be used in combination with conventional wastewater treatment methods.

Study of the use of sodium thiocyanate as an indicator for three-dimensional dosimetry

Three-dimensional dosimetry allows the determination of dosimetric quantities with a volumetric gradient. With Fricke Gel it is possible to make measurements of this nature due to the restriction of ions in this dosimeter caused by the presence of a gelatinous matrix. When ion indicators are added to Fricke Gel, the diffusion of the ions is further hampered and, in addition, the use of optical measurement techniques for the determination of the absorbed dose becomes possible. In this study, a new ferric ion indicator possibility for Fricke Gel is evaluated. Sodium thiocyanate was added to the Fricke Gel matrix and the effect of this addition was analyzed in a gamma radiation field and in a high-energy electron beam. The obtained results demonstrated the possibility of using this indicator as a binding agent in the Fricke Gel dosimeter. In the gamma irradiation field, the dosimeter showed a linear response with the absorbed dose between 5 Gy and 150 Gy, in addition to presenting visual evidence of the spatial distribution of the radiation field to which it is subjected.

Structural and electromagnetic properties of 3D printed and electron beam sintered lithium ferrite ceramic

In this work, the structures and electromagnetic properties of lithium ferrite ceramics manufactured by the additive method, based on the extrusion deposition of ferrite samples with a binder and their subsequent heating with high-energy electron beam, were studied. Preliminary synthesis of ferrite powder was carried out by a solid-phase method using iron oxide and lithium carbonate. To prepare ferrite paste, a binder based on ethylcellulose and terpineol was used. The printed samples were sintered by heating with 1.4 MeV electron beam using an ELV-6 accelerator. Using X-ray phase analysis, it was established that the sintered ceramic consists mainly of an ordered α−Li0.5Fe2.5O4 phase and a certain amount of disordered β−Li0.5Fe2.5O4 phase. Ferrite ceramics are characterized by a relative density of 72.6–92.1%, specific saturation magnetization of 63–65 emu/g, Curie temperature of 628–630 °C, electrical resistivity of 108–106 Ω cm, depending on the thickness of the printed sample (200 and 400 μm) and sintering temperature (1100 and 1200 °С).

Technical Design Report for the LUXE experiment

AbstractThis Technical Design Report presents a detailed description of all aspects of the LUXE (Laser Und XFEL Experiment), an experiment that will combine the high-quality and high-energy electron beam of the European XFEL with a high-intensity laser, to explore the uncharted terrain of strong-field quantum electrodynamics characterised by both high energy and high intensity, reaching the Schwinger field and beyond. The further implications for the search of physics beyond the Standard Model are also discussed.

Polymer gel materials based on polyvinyl alcohol and silver nanoparticles

Recently, issues of technogenic and environmental safety have come to the fore in the development of civilization. Currently, there is a tendency to increase the number of man-made emergencies. One of the ways to mitigate their impact and consequences on the population is the creation of innovative medical materials. Therefore, the idea of ​​developing a non-toxic, antibacterial and antiviral polymer hydrogel with given functional properties as a wound dressing is relevant today. The work is devoted to the creation of silver-containing gel materials based on polyvinyl alcohol and polyethylene glycol. Hydrogel nanocomposite materials were obtained by reduction of silver ions with the help of ascorbic acid followed by cross-linking of polymer macromolecules by irradiation with a high-energy electron beam. The structure of hydrogel materials was studied by the method of wide-angle X-ray scattering and the presence of metallic silver in the studied polymer systems was confirmed. It was established that polymeric hydrogel materials PVA-PEG-1%-Ag exhibit antimicrobial and antiviral activity. It was found that the investigated polymer hydrogel materials with silver nanoparticles do not exhibit a toxic effect.

Cellulose-based mugwort biochar constructs p-n heterojunction micro interfaces to regulate the photocatalytic oxidation of As(III) by ferromanganese ions

The utilization of a low-cost common waste biomass, mugwort, with a porous structure is important for the treatment of Arsenic (III) pollution in the aquatic environment. In this study, mugwort straw was first delignified to expose more hydroxyl groups, then loaded with MnOOH and α − FeOOH and constructed with p − n heterojunctions on cellulosic biochar microinterfaces. The successful formation of p − n heterojunction effectively enhances the electric field enhancement inside the photocatalyst, promotes charge transfer and suppresses the recombination of photogenerated carriers. Application of high-energy electron beam irradiation of FMBC−LR2 to modulate the generation and dominant mechanism of Fe and Mn in the reaction system. The results showed that Mn3+ underwent disproportionation reaction to form Mn2+ and Mn4+. Among them, Mn2+ led to the formation of MnFe2O4, while Mn4+ exhibited stronger oxidizing properties that could promote the transformation of Fe2+ to Fe3+, thus allowing more Fe3+ to participate in the photocatalytic oxidation of As(III) in a synergistic manner. As(III) oxidation efficiency increased 9.18 times after delignification treatment (FMBC−LR2) and 12.31 times after high-energy electron beam irradiation (FMBC−LR2 − 650) as compared to mugwort straw biochar (BC). In addition, the EPR assay results indicated that ·O2−, ·OH, and 1O2 acted together in the As(III) reaction. This provides new insights into the remediation of composite modified biochar in water bodies and a new environmentally friendly strategy for the comprehensive utilization of straw materials.

Design and test of an X -band constant gradient structure

A light source project named very compact inverse Compton scattering gamma-ray source (VIGAS) is under development at Tsinghua University. VIGAS aims to generate monochromatic high-energy gamma rays by colliding 350-MeV electron beams with 400-nm laser photons within a 12-m beamline. To produce a high-energy electron beam in such a compact space, the system consists of an S-band high-brightness injector and six X-band high-gradient accelerating structures. The goal of the X-band structure is to operate at a high gradient of 80 MV/m. Therefore, we adopts the constant gradient traveling wave approach, where the iris from the first cell to the end cell is tapered. The structure has 72 cells, including 70 cells and 2 couplers, so we named it XT72. The frequency of XT72 is selected to 11.424 GHz, and the 2π/3 mode is adopted. In this paper, we present a comprehensive study covering the detailed design, fabrication, rf tuning, and high-power test results of the first XT72. Additionally, we compare the performance of this structure to that of the previous constant impedance structure. Our results demonstrate that the XT72 is capable of operating at an 80−MV/m gradient with a lower breakdown rate. This advancement paves the way for the development of VIGAS project and contributes to the wider application of X-band room-temperature high-gradient structures in compact accelerator facilities. Published by the American Physical Society 2024

2374: Early experience with IAEA/WHO postal dose audits for high energy electron beams

2374: Early experience with IAEA/WHO postal dose audits for high energy electron beams

Impact of adding high-concentration neutron poisons to reactor moderator system for guaranteed shutdown

To ensure a reliable shutdown of the proposed advanced heavy water reactor (AHWR) of Indian origin during emergency conditions, it is imperative to use an increased concentration of liquid neutron poison for injection into the moderator system due to its higher reactivity. The sudden injection of this liquid poison may cause a surge in radiolytic product (H2O2 and H2) yield, posing safety risks. If H2/D2 yield exceeds 4 % (v/v), a combustible mixture with oxygen can be formed and presence of oxidizing H2O2 can enhance corrosion. Hence, accurate estimation of H2O2 and H2 is imperative from the reactor safety point of view. We investigated gadolinium and boron (two liquid neutron poisons) at varying concentrations through high energy electron beam and gamma radiolysis. The radiolytic yields from both the liquid neutron poisons of equivalent concentrations at a constant dose and operating moderator conditions in electron beam and gamma radiolysis were compared. The molecular product yield was observed to be concentration and dose-rate-dependent for both the neutron poisons. Electron radiolysis exhibited a higher yield of H2O2, whereas gamma radiolysis resulted in a greater H2 yield. In electron radiolysis, the H2O2 yield decreased with increasing B concentration. These results give an overall estimation of radiolytic products for a particular dose rate, total dose and effect of head space volume over liquid irradiation zone from these two liquid poisons of a particular concentration. These insights will aid in selecting suitable poisons and managing their effects effectively to avoid hydrogen deflagrations after emergency shutdown.

Oxidation-Induced Oxide Shell Rupture and Phase Separation in Eutectic Gallium-Indium Nanoparticles.

Eutectic gallium-indium (EGaIn), a room-temperature liquid metal, has garnered significant attention for its applications in soft electronics, multifunctional materials, energy engineering and drug delivery. A key factor influencing these diverse applications is the spontaneous formation of a native passivating oxide shell that not only encapsulates the liquid metal but also alters the properties from the bulk counterpart. Using environmental scanning transmission electron microscopy, we report in situ observations of the oxidation of EGaIn nanoparticles by ambient air under high-energy electron beam irradiation. Our findings demonstrate that uneven oxide shell growth, driven by inward diffusion of adsorbed O species, creates unbalanced stresses. This compels the liquid metal to deform toward regions with slower oxide growth, resulting in shell rupture and allowing the liquid metal core to flow out. This process initiates top-down self-similar replication of the core-shell liquid metal nanoparticles, causing larger particles to break down into smaller particles. Additionally, internal oxidation triggers phase separation within the liquid core, ultimately leading to the pulverization of the liquid metal into finer solid particles rich in indium. These mechanistic insights into the oxidation behavior of the liquid metal hold practical implications for leveraging this process to reconfigure EGaIn nanoparticles for various applications.

Positively Charged Microparticle in Plasma with High-Energy Electron Beam

The processes of recharging, heating and evaporation of a positively charged microparticle (MP) introduced into the plasma with an injected high-energy electron beam are considered. It is assumed that the MP is charged outside the plasma and then introduced into the plasma by an accelerating field, where plasma and beam electrons hitting the MP heat and evaporate it. In addition to introducing the MP into the plasma, the positive MP charge provides an additional source of energy needed to heat and evaporate it. Using the OML theory, the system of current and energy balance equations was numerically solved and the conditions, under which the MP is heated to the boiling point of its substance, resulting in its intense evaporation, were determined. The influence of the energy of the electron beam on the process of MP recharging, as well as on the rate of its heating and evaporation, has been studied. An estimate of the particle entry velocity into the plasma has been made; the distances at which its recharging, heating to the boiling point and complete evaporation occur are determined. The work is carried out in order to creating plasma of a given elemental composition.

Magnetic Design of a Compact GaToroid for Very High Energy Electron and Pre-Clinical Hadron Beams

Magnetic Design of a Compact GaToroid for Very High Energy Electron and Pre-Clinical Hadron Beams

Reduction in mycotoxin levels of African nutmeg (Monodora myristica) powder using a high-energy electron beam

This study investigated the role of irradiation with a high-energy electron beam in reducing mycotoxin levels of African nutmeg powder (ANP) samples. African nutmeg was procured from a local market in Accra, Ghana, cleaned, milled, packaged and irradiated using electrons of energy 9 MeV at doses of 2, 4, 6 and 8 kGy. Un-irradiated ANP served as a control. Mycotoxin levels of the treated samples were determined using appropriate standard methods. Aflatoxins B1 (AFB1) and B2 (AFB2) as well as ochratoxin A (OTA) were detected in the nutmeg samples. Irradiation significantly (p < 0.05) reduced mycotoxin levels of the ANP with increasing doses. Aflatoxins G1 and G2 were not detected in any of the samples. A dose of 8 kGy was effective in reducing the mycotoxin levels below the permissible limit in food. This suggests that a high-energy electron beam is effective in reducing mycotoxin levels in African nutmeg powder.

Quantitative analysis of atomic migration in lithium-ion conducting oxide solid electrolytes

Direct observation of intrinsic atom migration inside bulk materials is crucial for understanding the ion-conducting property; however, microscopy experiments remain challenging. Here, intrinsic atom migration in bulk lithium-ion conductor La2/3–xLi3xTiO3 was investigated by using aberration-corrected transmission electron microscopy. The atomic migration was triggered by high-energy electron beam irradiation. Through quantitative analysis of high-angle annular dark-field image sequences and estimation of random errors using the 3σ criterion, the subtle contrast variation caused by single atom migration was extracted, in which the validity was further confirmed by image simulations. It provides a simple and feasible methodology for investigating the mechanism of atomic migration in bulk materials.

AAPM WGTG51 Report 385: Addendum to the AAPM's TG-51 protocol for clinical reference dosimetry of high-energy electron beams.

An Addendum to the AAPM's TG-51 protocol for the determination of absorbed dose to water is presented for electron beams with energies between 4MeV and 22MeV ( ). This updated formalism allows simplified calibration procedures, including the use of calibrated cylindrical ionization chambers in all electron beams without the use of a gradient correction. New data are provided for electron beams based on Monte Carlo simulations. Implementation guidance is provided. Components of the uncertainty budget in determining absorbed dose to water at the reference depth are discussed. Specifications for a reference-class chamber in electron beams include chamber stability, settling, ion recombination behavior, and polarity dependence. Progress in electron beam reference dosimetry is reviewed. Although this report introduces some major changes (e.g., gradient corrections are implicitly included in the electron beam quality conversion factors), they serve to simplify the calibration procedure. Results for absorbed dose per linac monitor unit are expected to be up to approximately 2% higher using this Addendum compared to using the original TG-51protocol.

Recording and Revealing 2.5D Nanopatterned Hidden Information on Silk Protein Bioresists.

Nanopatterning on biomaterials has attracted significant attention as it can lead to the development of biomedical devices capable of performing diagnostic and therapeutic functions while being biocompatible. Among various nanopatterning techniques, electron-beam lithography (EBL) enables precise and versatile nanopatterning in desired shapes. Various biomaterials are successfully nanopatterned as bioresists by using EBL. However, the use of high-energy electron beams (e-beams) for high-resolutive patterning has incorporated functional materials and has caused adverse effects on biomaterials. Moreover, the scattering of electrons not absorbed by the bioresist leads to proximity effects, thus deteriorating pattern quality. Herein, EBL-based nanopatterning is reported by inducing molecular degradation of amorphous silk fibroin, followed by selectively inducing secondary structures. High-resolution EBL nanopatterning is achievable, even at low-energy e-beam (5keV) and low doses, as it minimizes the proximity effect and enables precise 2.5D nanopatterning via grayscale lithography. Additionally, integrating nanophotonic structures into fluorescent material-containing silk allows for fluorescence amplification. Furthermore, this post-exposure cross-linking way indicates that the silk bioresist can maintain nanopatterned information stored in silk molecules in the amorphous state, utilizing for the secure storage of nanopatterned information as a security patch. Based on the fabrication technique, versatile biomaterial-based nanodevices for biomedical applications can be envisioned.

Generation of gamma photons and pairs with transverse orbital angular momentum via spatiotemporal optical vortex pulse

We present the generation of well-collimated gamma photons and pairs with extrinsic transverse orbital angular momentum (TOAM) through the head-on collision of an intense spatiotemporal optical vortex (STOV) pulse carrying intrinsic TOAM and a high-energy electron beam. It is found that the TOAM of STOV pulse remains almost unchanged, and the TOAM is conserved in the center-of-mass frame. Moreover, there exhibits a duality for particles TOAM in the CMF and laboratory frame when the initial location of high-energy electron beam is different. Furthermore, the TOAM of gamma photons in the CMF increases while that of positrons decreases as the topological charge of STOV pulse increases, whereas in the LF, the TOAM of both gamma photons and positrons decreases. The result under the same pulse intensity is better than that under the same pulse energy. The increase in the initial energy of high-energy electrons leads to an enhancement of the TOAM of both gamma photons and positrons in both frames. Gamma photons and electrons/positrons with TOAM as a new degree of freedom may have extensive applications in optical communication, astrophysics, nanomaterials, and other fields.

Time-dependent Stellar Flare Models of Deep Atmospheric Heating

Optical flares have been observed from magnetically active stars for many decades; unsurprisingly, the spectra and temporal evolution are complicated. For example, the shortcomings of optically thin, static slab models have long been recognized when confronted with the observations. A less incorrect—but equally simple—phenomenological T ≈ 9000 K blackbody model has instead been widely adopted in the absence of realistic (i.e., observationally tested) time-dependent, atmospheric models that are readily available. We use the RADYN code to calculate a grid of 1D radiative-hydrodynamic stellar flare models that are driven by short pulses of electron-beam heating. The flare heating rates in the low atmosphere vary over many orders of magnitude in the grid, and we show that the models with high-energy electron beams compare well to the global trends in flux ratios from impulsive-phase stellar flare, optical spectra. The models also match detailed spectral line-shape properties. We find that the pressure broadening and optical depths account for the broad components of the hydrogen Balmer γ lines in a powerful flare with echelle spectra. The self-consistent formation of the wings and nearby continuum level provides insight into how high-energy electron-beam heating evolves from the impulsive to the gradual decay phase in white-light stellar flares. The grid is publicly available, and we discuss possible applications.

The study of interaction of the high energetic plasma and electron pulses with multicomponent alloy surface

This paper investigates the impact of high-energy sources, namely, high-energy plasma pulses and high-energy electron beam pulses, on materials in the form of layer through separate and combined exposures. Experimental setups utilizing a Rod Plasma Injector (RPI) and an electron gun were employed for irradiation tests. The studies involved pre- and post-treatment analysis of morphology, chemical, and phase composition using scanning electron microscopy and x-ray diffraction measurements. Surface modifications under different exposure conditions were characterized, revealing that both sources induced significant alterations in surface composition and crystal structure. These interactions result in a more uniform chemical composition, reduced surface roughness, and a shift from an amorphous phase to a nanocrystalline or amorphous-nanocrystalline state. The results underscore the potential of high-energy sources for efficient surface engineering, offering opportunities for customized material surface modifications through meticulous adjustment of these generation parameters.

Impact of high-energy electron beam irradiation on piezoelectric properties of lead zirconate titanate

We measured the resonant and anti-resonant frequencies of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) elements at various temperatures and investigated the change in the electromechanical coupling coefficient to clarify the temperature dependence of the elements. Based on these results, we performed a 20 MeV electron beam irradiation experiment on the PZT elements. We found that the electromechanical coupling coefficient decreased as the cumulative energy absorption due to beam irradiation increased, even when the effect of the temperature rise due to beam irradiation was negligible.