A genetic algorithm to design Laue lenses with optimal performance for focusing hard X- and gamma-rays

TL;DR

This paper introduces LaueGen, a genetic algorithm-based software for designing optimized Laue lenses to focus hard X- and gamma-rays, enhancing detection capabilities for astrophysics and medical applications.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel genetic algorithm approach for designing Laue lenses, allowing flexible, optimized configurations for various applications and materials.

Findings

Successfully designed Laue lenses with optimized performance

Flexible management of crystal materials and orientations

Applicable to small medical and large astrophysical lenses

Abstract

In order to focus hard X- and gamma-rays it is possible to make use of a Laue lens as a concentrator. With this optical tool it would be possible to improve the detection of radiation for several applications, spanning from the observation of the most violent phenomena in the sky to nuclear medicine applications, for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. A code named LaueGen, based on a genetic algorithm and aimed to designing optimized Laue lenses, has been implemented. The genetic algorithm was selected because the optimization of a Laue lens is a complex and discretized problem. The output of the code consists in the design of a Laue lens composed of diffracting crystals selected and arranged in such a way to maximize the performance of the lens. The code allows one to manage crystals of any material and crystallographic orientation. The program is structured in such a way that the user can control all the initial parameters of the lens. As a result, LaueGen is highly versatile and can be used for the design of very small lens, e.g. for nuclear medicine, to very large lens, e.g. for satellite-borne astrophysical missions.