Compact, Modular Linac System for Electron Beam and X-ray Irradiation

Statement of the problem Accelerators have found great success in replacing radioisotopes such as Co-60 in radiation therapy. They are also increasingly finding use in industrial irradiation applications like medical device sterilization and food irradiation. However, the high power linacs used for irradiation applications require a multi-million dollar investment in specialized equipment and highly trained personnel. This creates a significant barrier to adopting accelerator technology for irradiation applications, especially in Low-to-Middle-Income Countries (LMIC) where radioisotope alternatives are most needed. Technical approach This project will develop a modular linear accelerator system that will reduce the upfront cost of equipment for radiation processing while increasing the reliability through redundancy. Instead of having to purchase a single, large, and highly customized accelerator, we will provide standardized linac “building blocks” that the customer can purchase as their capacity increases and resources become available. The standardization will improve the serviceability, as the modular linac will be based on the abundant components used in medical linacs, of which more than one thousand are manufactured every year. Phase I results In Phase I, we designed a compact, modular, affordable linac system based on readily-available medical linac components. We designed a “split linac” accelerating structure to reduce the cost of manufacturing. We ensured operation at the three common energies used for sterilization applications (5, 7.5 and 10 MeV). We designed a high-efficiency, reconfigurable scan horn to allow adaptation to the specific product being irradiated, as well as an insertable X-ray converter to allow remote switching between electron beam and X-ray mode. Finally, we began engineering of the entire system in order to prepare for full prototype fabrication and testing in Phase II. Phase II plans In Phase II, we will complete the final engineering, purchase all required components, and assemble and test the full system. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits Security concerns are driving increasing adoption of electronic replacements for radioisotopes. The market for accelerators for sterilization was estimated to be $618 million in 2021 and is growing rapidly. More cost-effective, efficient accelerator technologies would further increase the rate at which Co-60 capacity is being replaced by accelerators.