Design and optimization of a beam shaping assembly for BNCT based on D–T neutron generator and dose evaluation using a simulated head phantom

A feasibility study was conducted to design a beam shaping assembly for BNCT based on D–T neutron generator. The optimization of this configuration has been realized in different steps. This proposed system consists of metallic uranium as neutron multiplier, TiF3 and Al2O3 as moderators, Pb as reflector, Ni as shield and Li-Poly as collimator to guide neutrons toward the patient position. The in-air parameters recommended by IAEA were assessed for this proposed configuration without using any filters which enables us to have a high epithermal neutron flux at the beam port. Also a simulated Snyder head phantom was used to evaluate dose profiles due to the irradiation of designed beam. The dose evaluation results and depth–dose curves show that the neutron beam designed in this work is effective for deep-seated brain tumor treatments even with D–T neutron generator with a neutron yield of 2.4×1012 n/s. The Monte Carlo Code MCNP-4C is used in order to perform these calculations.

► A BSA has been designed based on D–T neutron generators for treating brain tumors in context of BNCT.
► The optimization process has been realized by MCNP for all of the BSA materials and their geometries.
► A simulated head phantom was used to evaluate dose profiles due to the irradiation of designed beam.
► The results show that the designed neutron beam is effective for deep-seated brain tumor treatments.
► Proposed BSA is proper for BNCT treatment even with D–T neutron generator which yields 2.4×1012 n/s.