Speaker
Description
Very High Energy Electrons (VHEEs) are an emerging radiotherapy modality that have attracted significant interest due to several advantageous properties. These include deep tissue penetration of over 30 cm, reduced sensitivity to tissue inhomogeneities, and strong compatibility with FLASH radiotherapy.
FLASH radiotherapy delivers radiation at ultra-high dose rates and has been shown to reduce damage to healthy tissue while maintaining tumour control. To support this application, we present the design of a 250 MeV linear accelerator capable of delivering dose rates exceeding 100 Gy/s across a 5 cm diameter treatment field.
The accelerator is based on a bi-periodic, π/2-mode, normal-conducting standing-wave cavity operating at an accelerating gradient of 80 MV/m. This high gradient enables a compact design suitable for installation in a hospital environment. The system uses 11.9942 GHz X-band technology and incorporates extensive cell geometry optimisation, achieving a shunt impedance greater than 100 MΩ/m while minimising peak surface electric and magnetic fields.
| Presenting Author | Euan Smith |
|---|---|
| Is the Presenting Author a PhD Student or Early Career Scientist ? | Yes |
| Area of research | Lepton accelerators (electron / muon / neutrino) |