Measurement of the neutron shielding efficacy of magnetite for Proton Therapy Facilities and other applications

TL;DR

This study evaluates neutron shielding effectiveness of magnetite compared to conventional concrete using experiments and simulations, showing magnetite's superior attenuation properties for proton therapy facilities.

Contribution

It provides a combined experimental and Monte Carlo simulation analysis demonstrating magnetite's improved neutron shielding capabilities over traditional concrete.

Findings

Magnetite exhibits a shorter neutron attenuation length than conventional concrete.

Experimental results agree well with Monte Carlo simulations.

Magnetite offers better shielding for proton therapy facility barriers.

Abstract

The neutron shielding properties of high-density concrete and magnetite aggregates were evaluated using both experimental measurements and Monte Carlo simulations. Because these materials are commonly used in medical accelerator facilities, it is essential to characterize their behavior under neutron radiation to ensure adequate shielding performance. Our experimental results show good agreement with the Monte Carlo calculations, confirming the reliability of the simulation approach. The attenuated neutron doses for various shielding thicknesses were determined for each aggregate type based on simulation and then compared as dose ratios. The findings indicate that magnetite provides superior neutron shielding, exhibiting a shorter attenuation length than conventional concrete for the same barrier thickness. The neutron attenuation characteristics of both concrete and magnetite were studied for typical neutron spectra encountered in clinical proton-therapy accelerators, including treatment rooms, primary, secondary barriers, and mazes. These results can support the optimization of radiation-shielding designs in medical and research facilities.