Physical characterization of energetic heavy-ion beams

The radiation field of relativistic heavy ions is significantly altered by the inevitable presence of matter in the path of the particles. For radiation therapy and radiobiological research these materials are mainly beam-flattening and range modification devices, as well as the generally healthy tissue between the entrance portal and the tumor volume of a patient. The radiation field at the exit of these materials consists of the residual primary particles as well as significant fluences of lighter particles produced by nuclear interactions in the matter traversed. The velocity and charge distribution of the emerging particles must be known in order to evaluate and predict biological effects on cells and tissues, as well as for the design of beam modification devices and shielding