⁹Be(d,n)¹⁰B-based neutron sources for BNCT

In the frame of accelerator-based BNCT, the ⁹Be(d,n)¹⁰B reaction was investigated as a possible source of epithermal neutrons. In order to determine the configuration in terms of bombarding energy, target thickness and Beam Shaping Assembly (BSA) design that results in the best possible beam quality, a systematic optimization study was carried out. From this study, the optimal configuration resulted in tumor doses ≥40 Gy-Eq, with a maximum value of 51 Gy-Eq at a depth of about 2.7 cm, in a 60 min treatment. The optimal configuration was considered for the treatment planning assessment of a real Glioblastoma Multiforme case. From this, the resulted dose performances were comparable to those obtained with an optimized ⁷Li(p,n)-based neutron source, under identical conditions and subjected to the same clinical protocol. - Highlights: • Study of the ⁹Be(d,n)¹⁰B reaction as a source of epithermal neutrons for BNCT. • Evaluation of the optimal configuration of target thickness, deuteron energy and BSA design. • Computational dose assessment for brain tumor treatments using the MCNP code. • Treatment planning assessment of a particular clinical Glioblastoma Multiforme case. • Dose performances were comparable to those obtained with an optimized ⁷Li(p,n)-based source