Feasibility study of using laser-generated neutron beam for BNCT

• Feasibility of using laser-accelerated proton beam for BNCT has been investigated.
• The considered beam can provide epithermal neutron flux of ~2×106 (n/cm2.shot).
• For BNCT treatment, the laser must operate at repetition rates of 1 kHz.

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 ∼2×106 n/cm2 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.