An exploration of shielding optimization for self-shielded accelerators / 中国辐射卫生

ABSTRACT

Objective To analyze the room layout and shielding of three types of self-shielded accelerators, and to provide a basis for optimizing the shielding design of rooms for self-shielded accelerators. Methods We compared the radiation shielding levels (transmitted radiation dose rate outside the primary barrier and scattered radiation dose rate outside the secondary barrier) of three self-shielded accelerator rooms by Monte Carlo simulation and empirical formula calculation. Results According to Monte Carlo simulation and empirical formula calculation, for the Unity MR Linac accelerator, the scatter radiation dose rate outside the secondary barrier was significantly higher (up to five times) than the transmitted primary radiation dose rate outside the primary barrier. The scatter radiation dose rate of the cross section was significantly higher than that of the sagittal section for both Unity MR Linac and TOMO accelerators. Conclusion The differences in the shape, material, and thickness of self-shielding structures complicate the shielding calculation and design for accelerator rooms. The shielding calculation method should be improved to optimize the radiation shielding of novel accelerator rooms.