Neutron flux evaluation model provided in the accelerator-based boron neutron capture therapy system employing a solid-state lithium target

An accelerator-based boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) system employing a solid-state Li target can achieve sufficient neutron flux for treatment although the neutron flux is reduced over the lifetime of its target. In this study, the reduction was examined in the five targets, and a model was then established to represent the neutron flux. In each target, a reduction in neutron flux was observed based on the integrated proton charge on the target, and its reduction reached 28% after the integrated proton charge of 2.52 × 106 mC was delivered to the target in the system. The calculated neutron flux acquired by the model was compared to the measured neutron flux based on an integrated proton charge, and the mean discrepancies were less than 0.1% in all the targets investigated. These discrepancies were comparable among the five targets examined. Thus, the reduction of the neutron flux can be represented by the model. Additionally, by adequately revising the model, it may be applicable to other BNCT systems employing a Li target, thus furthering research in this direction. Therefore, the established model will play an important role in the accelerator-based BNCT system with a solid-state Li target in controlling neutron delivery and understanding the neutron output characteristics.