Controlled nuclear fusion for neutron generation: development in CNEA of a facility

The Instrumentation and Dosimetry Division of the Argentine National Atomic Energy Commission, CNEA, is performing studies on the utilization of devices based on controlled nuclear fusion for neutron production and diverse applications. The main goal of this work line, which started in 2009, is the development of an in-hospital neutron irradiation facility for applying Boron Neutron Capture Therapy, BNCT, on explanted organs. Nevertheless, the application can reach irradiations in other clinical, research, and development scenarios, for example: in-hospital activation of small amounts of radiopharmaceuticals; irradiation of diverse organic tissues; study of plasma under fusion conditions; assessments of radiation damage in materials for research in fusion area as well as in others; and neutron activation analysis. A more ample goal is to contribute to the development in CNEA of the areas of controlled nuclear fusion science and technology. This project has considered the evaluation of utilizing compact neutron generators based on nuclear fusion. Since its beginnings, specialists and laboratories expert on this type of generators were consulted. Consequently, different facility designs have been realized and dosimetry and neutronics assessments were carried out to analyze their feasibility. The results obtained until present have converged towards a type of designed called fusion based neutron irradiation channel, or chamber (CINBF for its Spanish name). They also show certain conditions that neutron generators must fulfill and a wide span of fields of applications. Advances have been presented to specialized professionals inside as well as outside Argentina. In addition, enough evidence has been compiled that demonstrates that the considered devices have a versatile applicability along diverse variations of controlled fusion science and technology. (author)