The proposed research is focused on the measurement of neutron leakage from 18O(p,n) reaction that provides 18F, the most widespread positron emitter for the production of PET radiopharmacuticals. The precise knowledge of leakage spectra is essential for the appropriate shielding of dedicated medical accelerators. This issue attracts more attention due to the highly desirable increase in radionuclides production on high-power cyclotron targets. The previous experiments performed on IBA accelerators demonstrate significant discrepancies between model code based prediction and experimental data.

The main goal of the project is the measurement of angularly dependent leakage spectra from 18O(p,n) reaction. The measurement will be realized with precise neutron spectrometer operated by the Research Center Rez. The experiments will make use of both newly designed target and the target for routine 18F production in order to verify the experimental data.

Sustainable Development Goals

Masaryk University is committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to improve the conditions and quality of life on our planet by 2030.