Near threshold 7Li(p,n) 7Be reaction as neutron source for BNCT

Abstract

7Li(p,n)7Be is an endothermic reaction and working near its threshold (1.88MeV) has the advantage of neutron spectra with maximum energies of about 100keV, considerably lower than at higher beam energies, or than using other neutron-producing reactions or as for the uranium fission spectrum, relevant for BNCT based on nuclear reactors. With this primary energy it is much easier to obtain the energies needed for treating deep seated tumors by BNCT (about 10keV). This work studies bombarding energies up to 2.05MeV,different beam incidence angles and the effect of the undesirable gamma production via the 7Li(p,γp?) 7Li reaction.<br />