Neutron science research project with a high-intensity proton accelerator

Neutron Science Research Project (NSRP) taken in Japan Atomic Energy Research Institute (JAERI), is a facility complex composed of a powerful superconducting proton linac, target systems which convert proton beams to neutrons or other particles, and the facilities for scientific research programs which are opened to international researchers as well as domestic. The proton linac is required to supply a high-intensity proton beam with an energy up to 1.5 GeV and a power around 10 MW. About a 5 MW proton beam is necessary for neutron scattering research facility and a compressor ring will be prepared at the end of beamline of the linac. The target of neutron source requires the strong structure and materials with a cooling system, endurable to intense 5 MW injection of an intense proton beam. An candidate of the targets are now, tentatively proposed and discussed of liquid metals such as mercury. A 2-5 MW proton beam is required for the transmutation development of target tests and experimental studies of the systems. Two methods are now investigated of the solid target and sodium-cooled system, and of the molten-salt system with flowing chloride fuel. Conceptual design works of the whole system and research and development for components of the injector system of the proton linac have been carried out an ion source, an RFQ linac and a part of DTL linac. After superconducting accelerators will be completely investigated, construction of NSRP will be started. NSRP is expected to be completed in ten years. (J.P.N.)