Thick target neutron spectrum from the Be-9(p,n) reaction

The thick target spectrum from the Be-9(p,n) nuclear reaction has been experimentally determined. The data are of use in the design of accelerator-based neutron beams for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy and Boron Neutron Capture Synovectomy due to the superior physical properties of beryllium targets compared with those made of lithium. The thick target spectrum of the reaction as a function of neutron energy and angle was measured at the Ohio University time-of-flight facility. Proton energies of 4.0, 3.7, 3.4, and 3.0 MeV were used. The neutron energy spectrum was measured using 4 lithium glass detectors at 0, 20, 40, 60, 80, and 110 degrees for 4.0 and 3.7 MeV protons, and at forward angles for 3.4 and 3.0 MeV protons. The total statistical error is less than 5% over most of the data set. The lithium glass detectors were calibrated using the Al(d,n) spectrum which has been accurately characterized.