High average current betatrons for industrial and security applications

Abstract

The fixed-field alternating-gradient (FFAG) betatron has emerged as a viable alternative to RF linacs as a source of high-energy radiation for industrial and security applications. For industrial applications, high average currents at modest relativistic electron beam energies, typically in the 5 to 10 MeV range, are desired for medical product sterilization, food irradiation and materials processing. For security applications, high power x-rays in the 3 to 20 MeV range are needed for rapid screening of cargo containers and vehicles. In a FFAG betatron, high-power output is possible due to high duty factor and fast acceleration cycle: electrons are injected and accelerated in a quasi-CW mode while being confined and focused in the fixed-field alternatinggradient lattice. The beam is accelerated via magnetic induction from a betatron core made with modern lowloss magnetic materials. Here we present the design and status of a prototype FFAG betatron, called the Radiatron, as well as future prospects for these machines.

Overview of Accelerators with Potential Use in Homeland Security

“…Fixed field alternating gradient (FFAG) accelerators using an induction core to accelerate the beam are also under consideration for homeland-security applications (Bertozzi et al (2011), Boucher et al, (2008, and Huan-li et al…”