Survey Methodology for the Activation of Beamline Components in an Electrostatic Proton Accelerator

Abstract

To establish a systematic guideline for accelerator decommissioning, as a case study, beamline activation of 12 MeV-proton electrostatic accelerator was investigated employing a survey meter and g-ray spectrometers. Beam loss points where reflected as high dose-rate area were identified, and generated nuclides and their activities were determined. Almost beamline components are made from stainless steel and 52 Mn and 56 Co were detected as principal induced activities. It was found that the 56 Co activity significantly contribute to the dose rate value denoted on the survey meter. From the beam operation history and the monitor currents of Faraday-cups, we revealed the beam loss on a certain point significantly reflects the 52 Mn activity on there. Induced activities of 52 Mn and 56 Co on the certain point of the beamline could be reproduced by the contact dose-rate on that point.

Radioactivation Investigation for Concrete in Synchrotron-Type Proton Therapy Facilities

“…The residual radioactivity in the beamline after accelerator operation indicates the magnitude of the proton beam loss [6]. Except for accelerator components that are intentionally bombarded with proton beams, most radioactivation occurs in stainless steel beam ducts.…”