Topology optimization in the framework of the linear Boltzmann equation -- a method for designing optimal nuclear equipment and particle optics

TL;DR

This paper introduces a topology optimization method based on the linear Boltzmann equation and Monte Carlo simulations to design complex particle transport structures, outperforming manual designs in challenging problems.

Contribution

It presents a novel topology optimization procedure integrated with Monte Carlo particle transport for designing nuclear and particle optics devices.

Findings

Successfully tested on difficult problems

Outperforms human-designed solutions

Potential to automate complex device design

Abstract

In this study, we describe a procedure of topology optimization in the framework of the linear Boltzmann equation, implemented using a reference Monte-Carlo particle transport code. This procedure can design complex structures that optimize the transport of particles, according to preset objectives and constraints. Although simple and perfectible, this procedure was successfully tested on a series of difficult problems, with results outperforming human capabilities. Improved, it could be used to assist or automate the design of particle optics or nuclear devices.