Neutron beam optimization based on a ^7Li（p,n）^7Be reaction for treatment of deep-seated brain tumors by BNCT

Neutron beam optimization for accelerator-based Boron Neutron Capture Therapy（BNCT） is investigated using a ^7Li（p,n）^7Be reaction. Design and optimization have been carried out for the target, cooling system,moderator, filter, reflector, and collimator to achieve a high flux of epithermal neutron and satisfy the IAEA criteria.Also, the performance of the designed beam in tissue is assessed by using a simulated Snyder head phantom. The results show that the optimization of the collimator and reflector is critical to finding the best neutron beam based on the ^7Li（p,n）^7Be reaction. Our designed beam has 2.49×109n/cm^2 s epithermal neutron flux and is suitable for BNCT of deep-seated brain tumors.