Boron neutron capture therapy exploits 10B(n,α)7Li reactions for targeted tumor destruction. In this work, we aimed at developing a dose monitoring system based on the detection of 478 keV gamma rays emitted by the reactions, which is very challenging due to the severe background present. We investigated a compact gamma-ray detector with a pinhole collimator and shielding housing. Experimental nuclear reactor measurements involved varying boron concentrations and artificial shifts of the sources. The system successfully resolved the 478 keV photopeak and detected 1 cm lateral displacements, confirming its suitability for precise boron dose monitoring.
A compact scintillator-based detector with collimator and shielding for dose monitoring in boron neutron capture therapy
Protti, Nicoletta;Altieri, Saverio;
2024-01-01
Abstract
Boron neutron capture therapy exploits 10B(n,α)7Li reactions for targeted tumor destruction. In this work, we aimed at developing a dose monitoring system based on the detection of 478 keV gamma rays emitted by the reactions, which is very challenging due to the severe background present. We investigated a compact gamma-ray detector with a pinhole collimator and shielding housing. Experimental nuclear reactor measurements involved varying boron concentrations and artificial shifts of the sources. The system successfully resolved the 478 keV photopeak and detected 1 cm lateral displacements, confirming its suitability for precise boron dose monitoring.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.