Optimized beam shaping assembly for a 2.1-MeV proton-accelerator-based neutron source for boron neutron capture therapy

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is facing a new era where different projects based on accelerators instead of reactors are under development. The new facilities can be placed at hospitals and will increase the number of clinical trials. The therapeutic effect of BNCT can be improved if a optimized epithermal neutron spectrum is obtained, for which the beam shape assembly is a key ingredient. In this paper we propose an optimal beam shaping assembly suited for an affordable low energy accelerator. The beam obtained with the device proposed accomplishes all the IAEA recommendations for proton energies between 2.0 and 2.1 MeV. In addition, there is an overall improvement of the figures of merit with respect to BNCT facilities and previous proposals of new accelerator-based facilities.

Automated summary

Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) is entering a new era with accelerator-based projects being developed, offering the potential for increased clinical trials in hospitals. A proposed optimal beam shaping assembly for an affordable low energy accelerator has shown significant improvements in achieving an optimized epithermal neutron spectrum. This advancement exceeds the IAEA recommendations and outperforms previous proposals for accelerator-based BNCT facilities.