title: Feasibility study of using laser-generated neutron beam for BNCT.
abstract: The feasibility of using a laser-accelerated proton beam to produce a neutron source, via (p,n) reaction, for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) applications has been studied by MCNPX Monte Carlo code. After optimization of the target material and its thickness, a Beam Shaping Assembly (BSA) has been designed and optimized to provide appropriate neutron beam according to the recommended criteria by International Atomic Energy Agency. It was found that the considered laser-accelerated proton beam can provide epithermal neutron flux of ∼2×10(6) n/cm(2) shot. To achieve an appropriate epithermal neutron flux for BNCT treatment, the laser must operate at repetition rates of 1 kHz, which is rather ambitious at this moment. But it can be used in some BNCT researches field such as biological research.
authors.affiliation: Nuclear Science and Technology Research Institute (NSTRI), Iran. Electronic address: Ykasesaz@aeoi.org.ir.
authors.forename: Y
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Kasesaz
authors.affiliation: Department of Physics, K.N.T University, Iran.
authors.forename: F
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Rahmani
authors.affiliation: Nuclear Science and Technology Research Institute (NSTRI), Iran.
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Khalafi
keywords: BNCT; Beam Shaping Assembly; Jupiter Laser Facility; Laser accelerator; MCNPX