A protective subsurface container for holding and temporary storage of activated targets

Authors:   B. Bayanov, Ya. Kandiev, E. Kashaeva, G. Malyshkin, S. Taskaev, V. Chudaev
Journal: Instruments and Experimental Techniques
https://doi.org/10.1134/S0020441210060217
Abstract: An accelerator-driven source of epithermal neutrons has been developed by the Budker Institute of Nuclear Physics for carrying out investigations into neutron capture therapy of malignant tumors. Safe handling of targets with 7Be radionuclide accumulated in them is one of the problems encountered in generation of neutrons in the 7Li(p, n)7Be reaction. It is proposed that targets will be decontaminated in a natural course, being placed in a subsurface container located in the room of the accelerating facility. The maximum activity of the targets enclosed in the container after scheduled generation of neutrons at the facility is estimated. Analytical estimates and Monte Carlo calculation of γ-ray transport are performed to determine the optimum container size, such that the γ-ray flux from its contents is reduced to the acceptable level. The preliminary design of the container and its embodiment are presented.