Difference between revisions of "NSF-MRI 2013"

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%\centerline{{\bf PIs}: Tony Forest, Alan Hunt, Phil Cole, Valeriia Starovoitova
 
%\centerline{{\bf PIs}: Tony Forest, Alan Hunt, Phil Cole, Valeriia Starovoitova
 +
 +
 +
We propose to develop an instrument that will irradiate materials for the purpose of supplying isotopes and facilitating multidisciplinary research using Photon Activation Analysis (PAA).
 +
In June of 2012, the Idaho Accelerator Center (IAC) received a grant from the state of Idaho as part of the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM) program.  One of the proposed objectives was to investigate the use of an electron accelerator to produce copper isotopes for cancer therapy research.  Based on the above research, we now propose to develop an instrument, that qualifies for the MRI category ``Track 2'', to produce isotopes and perform Photon Activation Analysis (PAA) services.  The equipment needed to construct this instrument will leverage State and Federal funds.  The second year work under the IGEM grant will seek to install a transport system to remotely moves samples in and out of the high radiation area. We request MRI funds to supplement this investment allowing the procurement of a more advanced transport system as well as a set of detectors and beam steerers to improve the irradiation quality and reduce sample heating.  Funds from the MRI and the IGEM grant will be pooled to pay for the procurement and installation of the transport system.  The MRI will further support the procurement of CVD diamond detectors to measure the radiation field in situ as well as beam position monitors and steering coils to position the radiation at the optimal location to maximize irradiation of the sample and as a result isotope activity. 
 +
 +
 +
 +
Intellectual Merits
 +
 +
The development of an accelerator based Isotope production tool with the dual purpose of enabling research that utilizes Photon Activation Analysis represents the primary intellectual merits of this proposal.  Nuclear reactors currently produce many of the isotopes used by industry and medical procedures.  The Idaho Accelerator Center (IAC) has been funded by the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM) to investigate the production of medical isotopes using an electron accelerator.  We propose to investigate the production of several isotopes to be used by both industry and medicine.  The application of photo-nuclear reactions for the production of isotopes contains several challenges for optimizing production efficiency.  The most notable, based on our previous work, has been the alignment of the sample with the photon flux.  We propose installing a photon monitoring system that will use CVD diamond detectors to measure photon rates up to $10^{12}$ photons/cm$^2$/sec. 
 +
 +
The above research in accelerator based isotope production has also enhanced the IAC's Photon Activation Analysis (PAA) capabilities.  The high photon luminosity used to produce isotopes may be used to irradiate samples for the purpose of quantifying the concentration of chemical elements within the sample.  Previous PAA measurements done a the IAC have demonstrated the ability to measure chemical species to the $\mu$ g per g (PPM) level, there is pressing need to improve the systematics related to sample irradiation.  The ability to perform these measurements non-destructively impacts research in disciplines ranging from environmental research to Archeology. 
 +
 +
 +
Broader impacts
 +
 +
The proposed instrument serves is a training facility as well as provide a service to both industry and research.  As part of Idaho State University's Idaho Accelerator Center, the proposed instrument will serve as an education and training platform for students.  Students in the accelerator physics program at ISU can receive hands on training in accelerator operations as well as investigate ways to improve accelerator performance for irradiating materials to produce isotopes or perform photon activation analysis.  The insturments ability to producte isotopes can help reduce the isotope shortage being reported by DOE's National Isotope Center.  The production of Cu-67, a current research project,  can be used as an antibody label for cancer therapy and imaging.
 +
PAA has an established record of its impact on several research areas including environmental studies, material science,  forensic science,  biochemistry, art, archaeology, and other areas which rely on using a non-destructive method to quantify the elements present in materials.
  
 
=Project Description=
 
=Project Description=
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\section{Introduction}
 
\section{Introduction}
  
−
We propose to develop an instrument to produce isotopes and be used by researchers in multiple disciplines to perform Photon Activation Analysis (PAA).
+
We propose to develop an instrument that will irradiate materials for the purpose of supplying isotopes and facilitate multidisciplinary research using Photon Activation Analysis (PAA)..   
−
The production of isotopes using an electron accelerator has the potential to provide the needed production capability for medical and industrial isotopes.   
+
In June of 2012, the Idaho Accelerator Center (IAC) received a grant from the state of Idaho as part of the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM) program.  One of the proposed objectives was to investigate the use of an electron accelerator to produce copper isotopes for use in medical diagnostic procedures.   
−
In June of 2012, the Idaho Accelerator Center (IAC) received a grant from the state of Idaho as part of the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM) program.  One of the proposed objectives was to research the use of an electron accelerator to produce copper isotopes for use in medical diagnostic procedures.   
+
Preliminary results of the this research have indicated that the production of copper isotopes, and isotopes in general,  strongly depends on the alignment of incident radiation to the sample.   
−
Preliminary results of the work sponsored by this research have indicated that the production of copper isotopes strongly depends on the alignment of incident radiation to the sample.   
 
 
While a sample size of 2 cm is predicted to produce the highest number of isotopes per volume, a misalignment of more than a centimeter may reduce the amount of isotopes produced by a factor of at least two.   
 
While a sample size of 2 cm is predicted to produce the highest number of isotopes per volume, a misalignment of more than a centimeter may reduce the amount of isotopes produced by a factor of at least two.   
 
The results of this work illustrates the need for a system to monitor the spatial distribution of the photons used to irradiate the samples as well as a  
 
The results of this work illustrates the need for a system to monitor the spatial distribution of the photons used to irradiate the samples as well as a  
−
system to transport samples into and out of the high radiation area.  The above research in accelerator based isotope production has also enhanced the IAC's Photon Activation Analysis capabilities.  The high photon luminosity used to produce isotopes can also irradiate samples for the purpose of quantifying the concentration of chemical elements within the sample.  While previous PAA measurements done a the IAC have demonstrated the ability to measure chemical species to the \mu g per g level, there is pressing need to improve the systematics related to sample irradiation. 
+
system to accurately position and transport samples into and out of the high radiation area.   
−
Based on this work, we propose to develop an instrument, that qualifies for the MRI category ``Track 2'', to produce isotopes and perform Photon Activation Analysis (PAA) services.
 
  
−
Intillectual Merits
 
  
−
Broader impacts
 
  
−
The proposed instrument serves is a training facility as well as provide a service to both industry and research.   As part of Idaho State University's Idaho Accelerator Center, the proposed instrument will serve as an education and training platform for students.  Students in the accelerator physics program at ISU can receive hands on training in accelerator operations as well as investigate ways to improve accelerator performance for irradiating materials to produce isotopes or perform photon activation analysis.  The insturments ability to producte isotopes can help reduce the isotope shortage being reported by DOE's national Isotope center.  The production of Cu-67, a current research project,  can be used as an antibody label for cancer therapy and imaging.
+
Based on the above research, we propose to develop an instrument, that qualifies for the MRI category ``Track 2'', to produce isotopes and perform Photon Activation Analysis (PAA) services. The equipment needed to construct this instrument will leverage State and Federal funds.  The second year work under the IGEM grant will seek to install a transport system to remotely moves samples in and out of the high radiation area. We request MRI funds to supplement this investment allowing the procurement of a more advanced transports system as well as a set of detectors and beam steerers to improve the irradiation quality and reduce sample heating.  Funds from the MRI and the IGEM grant will be pooled to pay for the procurement and installation of the transport system.  The MRI will further support the procurement of CVD diamond detectors to measure the radiation field in situ as well as beam position monitors and steering coils to position the radiation at the optimal location to maximize irradiation of the sample and as a result isotope activity.  A bending magnet will be used to sweep electrons away from the sample thereby reducing heating of the sample by at least 80\%.
−
PAA has an established record of its impact on several research areas including environmental studies, material science,  forensic science,  biochemistry, art, archaeology, and other areas which rely on using a non-destructive method to quantify the elements present in materials.
+
 
  
 
== a.) Information==
 
== a.) Information==
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\subsubsection{Justification for Submission as a Development (Track 2) Proposal (a.2)} ('''1 page''')
 
\subsubsection{Justification for Submission as a Development (Track 2) Proposal (a.2)} ('''1 page''')
  
−
The proposed instrument will be developed by combining several instruments from different vendors with an electron accelerator currently in operation at the Idaho Accelerator Center.  The instrument is  specifically designed for Isotope production and Photon Activation Analysis.  Preliminary results indicate that this electron accelerator  can be developed into an instrument that is more efficient, stable, and effective at providing the service of isotope production and photon activation analysis.  A key ingredient to the instrument will be a transport system (Rabbit) to remotely position samples at an optimum location for irradiation.  The Idaho Accelerator Center's on staff engineers will install the system developed by IntelliTrack,Inc.  The second key component is a beam control and feedback system that will allow operators to deliver a constant flux of photons to the specified sample location.  The remote transport system and the photon flux monitor each represent the development of an instrument.  An instrument for Isotope production and PAA can be developed by combining each of the two instruments above with an electron accelerator. The development of this instrument will require the design and fabrication talents of  engineers  as well as the quality control and measurement expertise of scientists.
+
The proposed instrument will be developed by combining several instruments from different vendors with an electron accelerator currently in operation at the Idaho Accelerator Center.  A substantial amount of effort will be undertaken to transform the electron accelerator into a tool for isotope production and PAA.  Preliminary results indicate that the electron accelerator  can be developed into an instrument that is more efficient, stable, and effective at providing the service of isotope production and photon activation analysis.  A key ingredient to the instrument will be a transport system (Rabbit) to remotely position samples at the optimum location for irradiation and then remove them from the high radiation area.  The Idaho Accelerator Center's on staff engineers will install the system developed in conjunction with  IntelliTrack, Inc.  The second key component is a beam control and feedback system that will allow operators to deliver a constant flux of photons to the specified sample location.  The implementation of CVD diamond photon detectors capable of measuring the high photon flux of $10^{12}$ photons/sec/cm$^2$ will be a challenge.  The remote transport system and the photon flux monitor each represent the development of an instrument.  An instrument for Isotope production and PAA can be developed by combining each of the two instruments above with an electron accelerator. The development of this instrument will require the design and fabrication talents of  engineers  as well as the quality control and measurement expertise of scientists.
−
 
 
−
 
 
−
We propose to acquire and install the equipment for a photon beam monitoring system and a conveyor system to transport irradiation samples into and out of the radiation cell.  This equipment, when combined with our existing facility, will increase our isotope production effiicency by at least two fold.
 
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Matching support from the IGEM project will be used to design and install a conveyor system while the MRI will purchase the system components. 
 
−
The conveyor, commonly referred to as a Rabbit, will transport samples into the irradiation region and then to a shielded container (lead pig) after irradiation. 
 
−
The transportation system is a necessity due to the high activity isotopes that are be produced. 
 
−
When used as an instrument for PAA, the transportation system can eliminate the step of shutting the accelerator off in order to change to the control sample thereby risking  a change in the experimental conditions whose uniformity is essential for meaningful measurements. 
 
−
Once calibrated, the photon monitoring system would allow users to irradiate a sample with a known amount of radiation.
 
−
\\
 
  
 
== b.) Research Activities ==
 
== b.) Research Activities ==
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\subsection{current isotope crisis}
+
\subsection{Lessons from the Isotope Crisis}
 +
 
 +
In 2009, approximately 90\% of the worlds technetium-99 supply was produced through the production of Mo-99 by irradiating Uranium in only five, forty year old  reactors.  Technetium-99 is used in about 85\% of the diagnostic imaging procedures.  The supply became limited when two reactors that supplied most of the isotope, Chalk River and Petten, shutdown.  This event illustrated the vulnerability of medical procedures that rely on the availability of technetium-99.  As a result, other reactor facilities are looking at Mo-99 production, new reactor facilities are being built, and alternative ways of producing replacement isotopes are being pursued.                                                                                                                                         
 +
The availability of technetium-99 will likely remain volatile for the years to come.
  
−
In fiscal year 2011, the Department of Energy's Isotope program had a budget of \$48.5 million that was used to send about 450 shipments of isotopes to over 150 industrial users and 100 researchers.  ~\cite{FY2013CongBudgetOff} The Isotope Production Facility (IPF) at Los Alamos National Laboratory, the Brookhaven Linac Isotope Producer (BLIP) at Brookhaven National Laboratory, and processing facilities at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORL) are the three primary facilities for isotope production.
+
In 2012, the Canadian nuclear and particle physics laboratory, TRIUMF, began developing the Advanced Rare IsotopE Laboratory (ARIEL) to house a 50 MeV super conducting linac capable of generating 10 mA electron currents (500 kW).  The primary mission of the facility is the production of rare isotopes with a secondary mission of anticipating the future uses of e-linac technologies for the production of medical isotopes.  One goal of the rare isotope research it to develop next generation cancer treatment.
  
 +
The Idaho Accelerator Center has, for the past year, been researching the production of Isotopes that may be used in medicine. The current research project, funded by the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM), involves an investigation into the production of Cu-67 using an electron accelerator.  The reaction, ${68 \atop\; }Zn (\gamma,p){67 \atop \; }Cu$, uses the bremstrahlung photons, produced when an electron interacts with a tungsten target, to eject a proton from the zinc target thereby producing copper-67.
  
 +
Despite the above crisis, the consumption of man made isotopes by industry and medicine continues to grow unabated.
 +
In fiscal year 2011, the Department of Energy's Isotope program had a budget of \$48.5 million that was used to send about 450 shipments of isotopes to over 150 industrial users and 100 researchers~\cite{FY2013CongBudgetOff}. The Isotope Production Facility (IPF) at Los Alamos National Laboratory, the Brookhaven Linac Isotope Producer (BLIP) at Brookhaven National Laboratory, and processing facilities at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORL) are the three primary facilities for isotope production.
  
−
\subsection{accelerator based isotope production}
 
  
−
\subsection{interdisciplinary research enabled by the device}
 
  
−
Christians abstract for introduction
 
  
−
http://www.physics.isu.edu/colloquium/segebade07.html
+
http://www.euronuclear.org/1-information/news/medical-isotope-crisis.htm
 +
 
 +
 
 +
\subsection{Accelerator Based Isotope Production}
 +
 
 +
Bombarding materials with the neutron flux from a nuclear reactor is a common method used to artificially produced isotopes .  We propose to produce isotopes using the bremsstrahlung photons produced by the interaction of an accelerated electron beam with a Tungsten converter in order to remove a proton or neutron from a nucleus.  In most cases, the isotope will be produced from nuclei that are naturally abundant and not manmade. 
 +
 
 +
For example, iridium-192, used by industry to test flaws in metals via gamma radiography,  can be produced using the neutrons from a nuclear reactor to donate a neutron to iridium-191 forming the isotope iridium-192.  A similar process can be used to produce iridium-192 by removing a neutron from iridium-193 using a photon of sufficient energy (13 MeV). 
 +
Sixty three percent of naturally occurring iridium is in the form of iridium-163 while the remaining fraction of iridium is in the form of iridium-191.  Nuclear reactors produce Irridium-192 using the less dominant natural isotope iridium-191.  The cross section for the photo-production of iridium -192 from Ir-193 peaks at around 0.5 barns for 13 MeV photons(http://cdfe.sinp.msu.ru/services/exfor/m0049.exf).  The thermal neutron capture cross section for Ir-191 is about 400 barns, eight hundred times larger than photo-production of Ir-192 from Ir-193. The photo-production of Ir-192 can theoretically become competitive with the production of Ir-192 from nuclear reactors if the photon flux is more than four hundred times higher, or less costly to produce, than the available neutron flux of more than 10$^{14}$ neutrons/s/cm$^2$. 
 +
 
 +
Although this fundamental calculation provides a quick estimate, there are several application specific areas that need to be evaluated in order to determine how competitive accelerator based isotope production of iridium-192 can be compared to nuclear reactor based production.  We propose to construct a tool that can be used to evaluate the production of iridium-192 as well as several other isotopes used by industry and medicine.  We have already begun forming a base of researchers interested in receiving isotopes that can be produced using an electron accelerator.  The University of Washington, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory have expressed their desire to use isotopes that may be produced at the IAC.  As the past isotope crisis has shown, there is a strong need to develop a diverse means of producing isotopes for industry and medicine. 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
\subsection{Interdisciplinary Research Enabled by the Device}
 +
 
 +
Photon Activation Analysis (PAA) has been deployed as a research tool at the Idaho Accelerator Center for the past several years thanks mostly to visiting  scientist Christian Segabade, one of the developers and leading experts in the field of PAA .  The method has been used to quantify the content of materials based on the energy of photons emitted from nucleii that are transitioning from excited states after being pushed there as a result of their exposure to an intense photon beam produced through bremsstrahlung  using the IAC's electron accelerators.  PAA's most useful attribute is that it requires little to no sample preparation to non-destructively make an accurate measurement  of a material's elemental composition. 
 +
 
 +
Since PAA determines the chemical content of a samples under study relative to a calibrated sample with a well known chemical composition.  A spectroscopic measurement of the calibrated and unknown samples is performed after each is irradiated by the same photon flux.  The resulting element spectra are compared using methods similar to those used by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) mass spectroscopy or atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS).  Some advantages of PAA are that measurements can be made non-destructively, on samples that are a few milligrams or many kilograms, over the entire sample volume and not just on the sample surface, and with little risk of sample contamination.  As a result, PAA has been applied to a wide range of research activities such as environmental studies, material science, archaeology, and forensic science.  Two specific examples of PAA performed at the IAC are given below.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
\subsubsection{Environmental Science}
 +
 
 +
The extent of the introduction of air borne pollutants, either natural or manmade, has been quantified using PAA.  On June 4, 2011, Chile's Puyehue volcano erupted throwing ash more than 6 miles into the atmosphere.  The volcano is located in the Puyehue-Cordon Caulle chain of south-central Chile.  Four dust samples were collected over a two week period in the area of Puyehue National Park, very near the center of the eruption.
 +
Drs Jeronimo Blostein and Romina Daga of the Centro Atomico Bariloche - Instituto Balseiro provided the ash samples that were used to perform a PAA.  Figure ~\ref{fig:Puyehue2011} illustrates the concentration of Calcium in the air immediately following the Puyehue eruption. The concentration of Calcium increase about 50 \% just two days after the eruption and remained high for about two weeks. 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
\begin{figure}[htbp]
 +
\begin{center}
 +
\mbox{\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/Sample_HpGeSpectrum4PAA.jpg}}
 +
\mbox{\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/Puyehue2011.png}}
 +
\caption{\small A sample PAA spectrum using a HpGe detector.  The concentration change of Calcium of a two week period after the Puyehue eruption on June 4, 2011.}
 +
\label{fig:Puyehue2011}
 +
\end{center}
 +
\end{figure}
 +
 
 +
 
 +
\subsubsection{Moon Dust Characterization}
 +
 
 +
 
 +
PAA was used to determine the trace elements present in the Minnessota  Lunar Simulant 1 (MLS-1) material synthesized to approximate soil sample 10084 from the Apollo 11 mare material.  The work was done in collaboration with the University of Colorado,  who provided the simulant for the test.  Synthesized materials, like MLS-1,  were produced to aide in the development of next generation lunar technologies for future lunar missions.  Figure~\ref{fig:MonnSim} quantifies PAA's ability to measure the trace elements of this material.  The results of this work indicate that PAA was able to reproduce previous measurements of the simulant's chemical composition using a different technique known as differential thermal analysis. PAA also seems to be as precise if not more precise than the previous measurements by Tucker and Setzer.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
\begin{figure}[htbp]
 +
\begin{center}
 +
\mbox{\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/MLS-1_PAAresults_Land.png}}
 +
\caption{\small The concentrations of several chemical elements in the Minnessota Lunar Simulant 1 (MLS-1) material.  The uncertainty from measurements using PAA are given by the risers is the image and compare with the uncertainties reported by Tucker \& Setzer using a differential Thermal Analysis.}
 +
\label{fig:MonnSim}
 +
\end{center}
 +
\end{figure}
  
−
Photon Activation Analysis (PAA) has been deployed as a research tool at the Idaho Accelerator Center for the past several years.  The method has been used to quantify the content of materials based on the photons emitted for research fields ranging from environmental monitoring to coffee production. 
 
  
 
Table of different research areas using PAA.
 
Table of different research areas using PAA.
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\section{Description of Research Instrumentation and Needs (c)} ('''6 pages''')
 
\section{Description of Research Instrumentation and Needs (c)} ('''6 pages''')
  
−
The proposed instrument will be composed of two major hardware acquisitions.  The first component is a system to remotely transport samples into the radiation area and then return them to a shielded area after being activated by a high intensity photon beam. The irradiation cell, as well as the sample itself, has the potential to have a high level of activity that prevents local manual access.  The remote transport system will be required to bring the sample out of the high radiation area and deposit the sample into a lead shield, if necessary.   The proposed design has the additional benefit of eliminating the need to turn off the accelerator in order to access the area.  In addition to reducing the sample retrieval time, this will enhance accelerator operational stability since the electron beam will remain on.  Systematic effects related to the irradiation will be reduced with this increased operational stability.
+
The Idaho Accelerator Center is currently operating a 40 MeV electron linac for the purpose of evaluating the viability of producing copper-67 as a medical isotope.  Figure ~\ref{fig:JackPlusPhotonFlux} represents a view of the beam line looking upstream from the exit window of the linac. Electrons impinging the tungsten target produce copious amounts of photons via Brehmsstrahlung.  Figure~\ref{fig:JackPlusPhotonFlux} shows the flux of photons immediately downstream of the tungsten radiator.  Samples with cross-sectional area of one square cm will be irradiated by at least 10$^{15}$ photons/sec/cm$^2$.  A flux of similar magnitude as the neutrons from reactors used to produce isotopes.  This flux is attenuated to about 10$^{12}$ photons/sec/cm$^2$ after passing through the zinc used for copper-67 production.
 +
 
 +
The specific activity of isotopes produced is dependent on the sample's alignment with respect to the incident photon flux. Figure ~\ref{fig:JackPlusPhotonFlux} shows a rapid decrease of photon flux as you move half a centimeter away from the accelerator's central axis.  This sharp decrease in flux reduces can result in a decrease in activity for samples that are not aligned with the photon flux at the mm level.  Previous measurements at the IAC have observed reductions in copper-67 activities of more than 50\% when the zinc sample is misaligned by 5 mm.  A system to detect the photon flux distribution is needed to maximize the activity of isotope production.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
\begin{figure}[htbp]
 +
\begin{center}
 +
\mbox{\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/JackAccelPhoto_02072013.png}}
 +
\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/frontZn.jpg}
 +
\caption{\small A picture of the Idaho Accelerator Center's 44 MeV linac to be used as the foundation for an Isotope production and PAA tool. The photon flux a\
 +
fter the radiator is shown.}
 +
\label{fig:JackPlusPhotonFlux}
 +
\end{center}
 +
\end{figure}
  
−
The second  component  is a detector system with beam position feedback to measure the radiation field in the region of the sample and then monitor the photon flux during irradiation.  A set of photon detectors (CVD diamond film based) will be purchased and mounted on a movable platform that will sweep the detectors through the brehmmstrahlung beam measuring its profile.  A set of beam position monitors (BPMs) will be installed along with steering coils in order to steer the incident electron beam.  The photon flux can then be maximized in the region of the sample in order to optimize the sample activity.    After measuring the photon distribution, the detectors will be parked behind the sample in order to directly measure the photon flux during irradiation.  A measurement of the flux during irradiation will document its stability and quanitfy the amount of incident radiation.    An online data acquition systtem will provide a feedback system between the BPMs and the diamond photon flux deteectors.
 
−
.
 
  
 
\subsection{CVD detectors}
 
\subsection{CVD detectors}
  
−
The chemical vapor deposition (CVD)  of polycrystalline diamond onto films has become an industry that currently provides "off-the-shelf" detectors among other applications.
+
A set of photon detectors (CVD diamond film based) will be purchased and mounted on a movable platform that will sweep the detectors through the Brehmmstrahlung beam measuring its profile. Research on the use of synthetic diamond as an ionization detector~\cite{Tapper2000} has matured to the point that detectors are being manufactured for purchase. 
 +
Figure~\ref{fig:CVDdiamondDetector} show the detector packages that is available from CIVIDEC Instrumentation. 
 +
The manufacturer specifications indicate that a CVD diamond detector with a photon flux of 10$^9$ to 10$^{12}$ photons/sec/cm$^2$ entering its acceptance should produce an output signal between  50 mV to 5 V in a 50$\Omega$ system if a 40dB amplifier is used.  The amplifier is a RF broadband amplifier with 2 GHz analog bandwith.  It has the advantage that you will see all single photon pulses which are extracted from the LINAC, possibly also the RF structure of the LINAC.
 +
 
 +
We propose to construct a photon detection system using six of these detectors to measure the photon beam profile in the region surround the sample.  Each detector will have 3mm electrodes and be fixed to a translation stage that will move the detectors across the photon beam in order to measure its profile.  The incident electron current can be scanned in order to confirm the detectors range of operation that is specified by the vendor.  The system will be used to determine the correct position of the electron beam that will align the photon flux field with the sample.  One detector will be positioned behind the sample to monitor the flux during the irradiation period.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
Journal: Nuclear Instruments & Methods in Physics Research Section A-accelerators Spectrometers Detectors and Associated Equipment - NUCL INSTRUM METH PHYS RES A , vol. 524, no. 1, pp. 115-123, 2004
 +
 
 +
Diamond detectors in particle physics,
 +
R J Tapper, Rep. Prog. Phys. 63 (2000) 1273–1316.
 +
 
 +
\begin{figure}[htbp]
 +
\begin{center}
 +
\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/B4_CVD_DiamondDetextor.png}
 +
\caption{\small A packaged CVD diamond high photon flux detector manufactured by Cividec. }
 +
\label{fig:CVDdiamondDetector}
 +
\end{center}
 +
\end{figure}
 +
 
  
−
GSI shows a signal output of about 2 ns when hit with a 200 MeV/u C-12 atom.
 
  
 
\subsection{Transport System}
 
\subsection{Transport System}
  
−
\subsection{BPM monitors}
+
A preliminary layout of the transport system ("Rabbit") is shown in Figure~\ref{fig:TransportSystem}.  Samples are removed by a nematic arm from the exit port of the accelerator.  The sample will be loaded into the proposed transport system ("Rabbit") which will move the sample out of the high radiation area where users can collect the sample.  If needed the sample can be lowered into a lead shield outside of the high radiation area.  The middle picture illustrate the innovative drive system used by OCS IntelliTrak to move the sample along a drive shaft. Figure~\ref{fig:TransportSystem}.  OCS IntelliTrak has quoted the cost of \$38,318 for the system shown in the bottom of Figure~\ref{fig:TransportSystem} and will install the system for \$11,400, see attached quote. 
 +
 
 +
\begin{figure}[htbp]
 +
\begin{center}
 +
\mbox{\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/WhiteRoomEndStation_02072013.png}}
 +
\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/500-DriveTube.jpg}
 +
\caption{\small An illustration of the drive system from OCS IntelliTrack which will be used to construct a ``Rabbit'' conveyor system to remove samples from the high radiation area.}
 +
\label{fig:TransportSystem}
 +
\end{center}
 +
\end{figure}
 +
 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
\subsection{Electron Beam Control and Monitoring Components}
 +
 
  
−
\subsection{permanent deflecting magnet}
+
 
 +
A set of beam position monitors (BPMs) will be installed along with steering coils in order to correlate the incident electron beam position with the photon flux distribution measured by the CVD diamond detectors.  The photon flux can then be maximized in the region of the sample in order to optimize the sample activity.    After measuring the photon distribution, the detectors will be parked behind the sample in order to directly measure the photon flux during irradiation.  A measurement of the flux during irradiation will document its stability and quanitfy the amount of incident radiation.    An online data acquition system will provide a feedback system between the beam position monitors and the diamond photon flux detectors.
 +
 
 +
A 5 kGauss bending magnet will also be procured to sweep electrons away from the sample.  The magnet will have a 4" x 3" footprint in order to minimize the distance between the tungsten converter target and the sample holder.  Sample heating is expected to be reduced by least 80\% and allow an increase in the photon flux beyond that predicted in Figure~\ref{fig:JackPlusPhotonFlux}.
  
 
== d.) Impact ==
 
== d.) Impact ==
Line 117: Line 221:
 
\section{Impact on Research and Training Infrastructure (d)} ( '''2 pages''')
 
\section{Impact on Research and Training Infrastructure (d)} ( '''2 pages''')
  
−
The proposed instrument will be a facility for performing isotope production research and training accelerator physicists.   
+
The proposed instrument will be a facility for performing research on isotope production as well as a tool for performing photon activation analysis,  and training accelerator physicists.   
 
The research on copper isotopes is well underway and quickly approaching a point where production for consumption is likely.
 
The research on copper isotopes is well underway and quickly approaching a point where production for consumption is likely.
−
The production of other isotopes for industry and research will also be under investigation using this device.  The goal will be for the instrument to be self sustaining and a means of training students.
+
The production of other isotopes for industry and research will also be under investigation using this device.  At least three institutions have provide letter of interest in this tool should it become available.  The goal is to create a funding stream from the production of isotopes that will sustain the maintenance of the tool so it can be available as a research platform and a training facility for students.
  
 
The instrument will be an opportunity to train students in the operation of an electron accelerator as well as the techniques for isotope production and PAA.  
 
The instrument will be an opportunity to train students in the operation of an electron accelerator as well as the techniques for isotope production and PAA.  
−
Graduate students, once trained, would operate the accelerator as a means of supporting their studies at ISU.
+
Graduate students, once trained, would operate the accelerator as a means of supporting their studies at ISU.
  
 
== e.) Management==
 
== e.) Management==
Line 128: Line 232:
 
\section{Management Plan (e)} ( '''2 pages''')  
 
\section{Management Plan (e)} ( '''2 pages''')  
  
−
The Idaho Accelerator Center has an established record of managing a facility serving the needs of interdisciplinary researchers that use beams of electrons or photons in their research.  This proposal requests the procurement of two main pieces of equipment that, when combined, serve as an inegrated instrument for the production of Isotopes and Photon Activation Analysis.  The components used to develop this instrument may be considered ``off the shelf''.  The accelerator expertise of the IAC and the detector development expertise of the PI will be relied upon to construct a working instrument. The track records of both entities are quite sound for this project. 
+
The design, construction, and commissioning phases of the project are outlined in Table~\ref{table:Timeline}.
−
The long term operations and maintenance plan will rely on the instruments ability to attract users.
 
−
The growth of demand for medical isotopes and the continued warning of an isotop production crisis by the Department of Energy is a strong indication that the instrument will be in demand should its ability to produce isotopes become well established.
 
  
 +
Although most of the equipment will be procured from established vendors, expertise in several areas during installation and assembly is required.  The Idaho Accelerator Center will provide an engineer to oversee the installation the transport system by OCS IntelliTrak as well as the installation of a translation stage for the CVD diamond detectors.  The PI of this proposal will be responsible for installing the data acquisition system and associated feedback system.  The CoPIs have an established record of isotope production and PAA as well as ongoing research programs.  Once most of the equipment has been installed and commission, the CoPIs will evaluate the systems performance in year two as part of their ongoing research program in isotope production and PAA.  Their research programs will be used to benchmark the performance of this tool in year two.
  
−
Months after award | Activity | Phase |
+
Most of the elements in this project have low risk for success.  The CVD diamond detector system used to monitor the photon flux, however, will be challenged to be viable at very high photon fluxes.  The position of these detectors will be re-evaluate in the event that the system saturates above photon fluxes of 10$^{12}$ photons/s/cm$^2$.  Moving the devices downstream will reduce the photon flux thereby mitigating the risks. 
 +
 
 +
 
 +
The Idaho Accelerator Center has an established record of managing a facility serving the needs of interdisciplinary researchers that use beams of electrons or photons in their research.  This proposal requests the procurement of two main pieces of equipment that, when combined,  serve as an integrated instrument for the production of Isotopes and Photon Activation Analysis.  Once deployed, the tool will become a valued addition to the resources currently being managed and made readily available to other researchers for their use.
 +
 
 +
 
 +
The long term operations and maintenance plan will rely on the instruments ability to attract users.  At least three organization have expressed an interest in using the tool.  The growth of demand for medical isotopes and observed vulnerability of isotope production is a strong indication that the instrument will be in demand should its ability to produce isotopes become well established.
  
 
=References=
 
=References=
Line 139: Line 248:
  
 
\begin{thebibliography}{99}
 
\begin{thebibliography}{99}
−
%---  Tony's ----
 
−
\bibitem{Zhang04}X.~Zheng {\it et al.}, Phys.~Rev.~Lett.~92 (2004) 012004.
 
  
 
\bibitem{FY2013CongBudgetOff}  FY2013 Cngressionl Budget (http://science.energy.gov/~/media/budget/pdf/sc-budget-request-to-congress/fy-2013/Cong_Budget_2013_IsoptopeProductionandDistributionProgramFunding.pdf)
 
\bibitem{FY2013CongBudgetOff}  FY2013 Cngressionl Budget (http://science.energy.gov/~/media/budget/pdf/sc-budget-request-to-congress/fy-2013/Cong_Budget_2013_IsoptopeProductionandDistributionProgramFunding.pdf)
 +
\bibitem{Tapper2000}"Diamond detectors in particle physics" , R J Tapper, Rep. Prog. Phys. 63 (2000) 1273–1316.
  
 
\end{thebibliography}
 
\end{thebibliography}
Line 161: Line 269:
 
\multicolumn{1}{c}{Description} \\
 
\multicolumn{1}{c}{Description} \\
 
\hline\hline
 
\hline\hline
−
50,000 & N & Conveyor system for isotope samples \\
+
70,000 & Y & Conveyor system for isotope samples \\
 
20,000 & N & 2 electron Beam Position Monitors, steering coils, and power supplies\\
 
20,000 & N & 2 electron Beam Position Monitors, steering coils, and power supplies\\
 
50,000 & N & CVD diamond detectors \\
 
50,000 & N & CVD diamond detectors \\
 
28,000 & N & Data Acquisition System \\
 
28,000 & N & Data Acquisition System \\
−
22,000 & Y & end station \\
+
4,200 & N & Bending Magnet \\
−
50,000 & Y & Professional \& Technical Services \\
+
6,000 & N & Materials \& Supplies\\
 +
25,241 & Y & Professional \& Technical Services \\
 
\hline
 
\hline
 
\end{tabular}
 
\end{tabular}
−
\caption{Budget: Total expenses = \$220,000, Available Match \$72,000 (33 \%)}
+
\caption{Budget: Total expenses = \$203,441, Available Match \$61,241 (30 \%)}
 
\end{center}
 
\end{center}
 
\label{table:Projects}
 
\label{table:Projects}
 
\end{table}
 
\end{table}
 +
 +
  
 
Budget Justification.
 
Budget Justification.
  
−
OCS IntelliTrack, Inc  has estimated that the transport system can be acquired for \$50,000.  The system will be able to move up to a 100 lb mass from the user (low radiation) area to the end station (a high radiation area).  A set of beam position monitors and associated readout electronics from Bergoz instrumentation can be purchased for 5,340 euros each.  An amount of \$20,000 has been budgeted to include coil steerers, power supplies, and  fluctuations of the US dollar with respect to the Euro.  A quote from CIVIDEC instrumentation estimates the procurement cost of a single 3mm effective area CVD diamond detector at about 6,000 euros.  I have budgeted \$50,000 for four of these CVD diamond detectors and the translation stages need to sweep them through the beam using a worm gear system that has analog position encoding.  A modern VME based DAQ system with EPICs monitoring is estimated to cost \$28,000 and will include a 32 channel ADC ($6k), a readout controller($3k), a miniCrate($4k), a host server ($2k), a trigger supervisor ($3k) and a  NIM Discriminator /Trigger/ECL output module ($10k).
+
OCS IntelliTrack, Inc  has estimated that the transport system can be acquired for \$70,000.  The system will be able to move up to a 100 lb mass from the user (low radiation) area to the end station (a high radiation area).  A set of beam position monitors and associated readout electronics from Bergoz instrumentation can be purchased for 5,340 euros each.  An amount of \$20,000 has been budgeted to include coil steerers, power supplies, and  fluctuations of the US dollar with respect to the Euro.  A quote from CIVIDEC instrumentation estimates the procurement cost of a single 3mm effective area CVD diamond detector at about 6,000 euros.  I have budgeted \$50,000 for four of these CVD diamond detectors and the translation stages need to sweep them through the beam using a worm gear system that has analog position encoding.  A modern VME based DAQ system with EPICs monitoring is estimated to cost \$28,000 and will include a 32 channel ADC (\$6k), a readout controller(\$3k), a miniCrate(\$4k), a host server (\$2k), a trigger supervisor (\$3k) and a  NIM Discriminator /Trigger/ECL output module (\$10k).  A 5 kGauss bending magnet will be purchased for \$4,200 to sweep the incident electron beam away from the sample to reduce sample heating.
  
−
The Idaho Accelerator Center will provide a shielded end station for the irradiation area at a cost of \$22,000 and the manpower to install the remote transport system from OCS IntelliTrack, Inc as well as the translation stages to position the CVD diamond detectors at an estimated cost of \$50,000.  The original source of the funds is a grant from the state of Idaho that has already been awarded.
+
The Idaho Accelerator Center will provide a cost match of \$36,000 towards the procurement of the transport system as well as \$25,241 in manpower to install the transport system and CVD detector translation stages.  These funds will be part of the second year budget from a State grant awarded under the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM).
  
 
= Current & Pending=
 
= Current & Pending=
  
 
=Facilities=
 
=Facilities=

Latest revision as of 06:49, 21 February 2013

Title

MRI: The Development of an Instrument for Isotope Production and Photon Activation Analysis (MRI Track 2)

Proj Summary

Each proposal must contain a summary of the proposed project not more than one page in length. The Project Summary consists of an overview, a statement on the intellectual merit of the proposed activity, and a statement on the broader impacts of the proposed activity.


\centerlineTemplate:\bf Project Summary: The Development of an Instrument for Isotope Production and Photon Activation Analysis (MRI Track 2)

%\centerline{{\bf PIs}: Tony Forest, Alan Hunt, Phil Cole, Valeriia Starovoitova


We propose to develop an instrument that will irradiate materials for the purpose of supplying isotopes and facilitating multidisciplinary research using Photon Activation Analysis (PAA). In June of 2012, the Idaho Accelerator Center (IAC) received a grant from the state of Idaho as part of the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM) program. One of the proposed objectives was to investigate the use of an electron accelerator to produce copper isotopes for cancer therapy research. Based on the above research, we now propose to develop an instrument, that qualifies for the MRI category ``Track 2, to produce isotopes and perform Photon Activation Analysis (PAA) services. The equipment needed to construct this instrument will leverage State and Federal funds. The second year work under the IGEM grant will seek to install a transport system to remotely moves samples in and out of the high radiation area. We request MRI funds to supplement this investment allowing the procurement of a more advanced transport system as well as a set of detectors and beam steerers to improve the irradiation quality and reduce sample heating. Funds from the MRI and the IGEM grant will be pooled to pay for the procurement and installation of the transport system. The MRI will further support the procurement of CVD diamond detectors to measure the radiation field in situ as well as beam position monitors and steering coils to position the radiation at the optimal location to maximize irradiation of the sample and as a result isotope activity.


Intellectual Merits

The development of an accelerator based Isotope production tool with the dual purpose of enabling research that utilizes Photon Activation Analysis represents the primary intellectual merits of this proposal. Nuclear reactors currently produce many of the isotopes used by industry and medical procedures. The Idaho Accelerator Center (IAC) has been funded by the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM) to investigate the production of medical isotopes using an electron accelerator. We propose to investigate the production of several isotopes to be used by both industry and medicine. The application of photo-nuclear reactions for the production of isotopes contains several challenges for optimizing production efficiency. The most notable, based on our previous work, has been the alignment of the sample with the photon flux. We propose installing a photon monitoring system that will use CVD diamond detectors to measure photon rates up to $10^{12}$ photons/cm$^2$/sec.

The above research in accelerator based isotope production has also enhanced the IAC's Photon Activation Analysis (PAA) capabilities. The high photon luminosity used to produce isotopes may be used to irradiate samples for the purpose of quantifying the concentration of chemical elements within the sample. Previous PAA measurements done a the IAC have demonstrated the ability to measure chemical species to the $\mu$ g per g (PPM) level, there is pressing need to improve the systematics related to sample irradiation. The ability to perform these measurements non-destructively impacts research in disciplines ranging from environmental research to Archeology.


Broader impacts

The proposed instrument serves is a training facility as well as provide a service to both industry and research. As part of Idaho State University's Idaho Accelerator Center, the proposed instrument will serve as an education and training platform for students. Students in the accelerator physics program at ISU can receive hands on training in accelerator operations as well as investigate ways to improve accelerator performance for irradiating materials to produce isotopes or perform photon activation analysis. The insturments ability to producte isotopes can help reduce the isotope shortage being reported by DOE's National Isotope Center. The production of Cu-67, a current research project, can be used as an antibody label for cancer therapy and imaging. PAA has an established record of its impact on several research areas including environmental studies, material science, forensic science, biochemistry, art, archaeology, and other areas which rely on using a non-destructive method to quantify the elements present in materials.

Project Description

\section{Introduction}

We propose to develop an instrument that will irradiate materials for the purpose of supplying isotopes and facilitate multidisciplinary research using Photon Activation Analysis (PAA).. In June of 2012, the Idaho Accelerator Center (IAC) received a grant from the state of Idaho as part of the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM) program. One of the proposed objectives was to investigate the use of an electron accelerator to produce copper isotopes for use in medical diagnostic procedures. Preliminary results of the this research have indicated that the production of copper isotopes, and isotopes in general, strongly depends on the alignment of incident radiation to the sample. While a sample size of 2 cm is predicted to produce the highest number of isotopes per volume, a misalignment of more than a centimeter may reduce the amount of isotopes produced by a factor of at least two. The results of this work illustrates the need for a system to monitor the spatial distribution of the photons used to irradiate the samples as well as a system to accurately position and transport samples into and out of the high radiation area.


Based on the above research, we propose to develop an instrument, that qualifies for the MRI category ``Track 2, to produce isotopes and perform Photon Activation Analysis (PAA) services. The equipment needed to construct this instrument will leverage State and Federal funds. The second year work under the IGEM grant will seek to install a transport system to remotely moves samples in and out of the high radiation area. We request MRI funds to supplement this investment allowing the procurement of a more advanced transports system as well as a set of detectors and beam steerers to improve the irradiation quality and reduce sample heating. Funds from the MRI and the IGEM grant will be pooled to pay for the procurement and installation of the transport system. The MRI will further support the procurement of CVD diamond detectors to measure the radiation field in situ as well as beam position monitors and steering coils to position the radiation at the optimal location to maximize irradiation of the sample and as a result isotope activity. A bending magnet will be used to sweep electrons away from the sample thereby reducing heating of the sample by at least 80\%.


a.) Information

\section{Information about the Proposal (a)}

\subsubsection{Instrument Location and Type (a.1)}

Physical location: Idaho Accelerator Center, Pocatello, ID

Instrument type: MRI-61

\subsubsection{Justification for Submission as a Development (Track 2) Proposal (a.2)} (1 page)

The proposed instrument will be developed by combining several instruments from different vendors with an electron accelerator currently in operation at the Idaho Accelerator Center. A substantial amount of effort will be undertaken to transform the electron accelerator into a tool for isotope production and PAA. Preliminary results indicate that the electron accelerator can be developed into an instrument that is more efficient, stable, and effective at providing the service of isotope production and photon activation analysis. A key ingredient to the instrument will be a transport system (Rabbit) to remotely position samples at the optimum location for irradiation and then remove them from the high radiation area. The Idaho Accelerator Center's on staff engineers will install the system developed in conjunction with IntelliTrack, Inc. The second key component is a beam control and feedback system that will allow operators to deliver a constant flux of photons to the specified sample location. The implementation of CVD diamond photon detectors capable of measuring the high photon flux of $10^{12}$ photons/sec/cm$^2$ will be a challenge. The remote transport system and the photon flux monitor each represent the development of an instrument. An instrument for Isotope production and PAA can be developed by combining each of the two instruments above with an electron accelerator. The development of this instrument will require the design and fabrication talents of engineers as well as the quality control and measurement expertise of scientists.

b.) Research Activities

\section{Research Activities to be Enabled (b)} ( 4 pages) The research activities to be enabled by the proposed instrument can be grouped into two categories; Isotope production and Photon Activation Analysis.


\subsection{Lessons from the Isotope Crisis}

In 2009, approximately 90\% of the worlds technetium-99 supply was produced through the production of Mo-99 by irradiating Uranium in only five, forty year old reactors. Technetium-99 is used in about 85\% of the diagnostic imaging procedures. The supply became limited when two reactors that supplied most of the isotope, Chalk River and Petten, shutdown. This event illustrated the vulnerability of medical procedures that rely on the availability of technetium-99. As a result, other reactor facilities are looking at Mo-99 production, new reactor facilities are being built, and alternative ways of producing replacement isotopes are being pursued. The availability of technetium-99 will likely remain volatile for the years to come.

In 2012, the Canadian nuclear and particle physics laboratory, TRIUMF, began developing the Advanced Rare IsotopE Laboratory (ARIEL) to house a 50 MeV super conducting linac capable of generating 10 mA electron currents (500 kW). The primary mission of the facility is the production of rare isotopes with a secondary mission of anticipating the future uses of e-linac technologies for the production of medical isotopes. One goal of the rare isotope research it to develop next generation cancer treatment.

The Idaho Accelerator Center has, for the past year, been researching the production of Isotopes that may be used in medicine. The current research project, funded by the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM), involves an investigation into the production of Cu-67 using an electron accelerator. The reaction, ${68 \atop\; }Zn (\gamma,p){67 \atop \; }Cu$, uses the bremstrahlung photons, produced when an electron interacts with a tungsten target, to eject a proton from the zinc target thereby producing copper-67.

Despite the above crisis, the consumption of man made isotopes by industry and medicine continues to grow unabated. In fiscal year 2011, the Department of Energy's Isotope program had a budget of \$48.5 million that was used to send about 450 shipments of isotopes to over 150 industrial users and 100 researchers~\cite{FY2013CongBudgetOff}. The Isotope Production Facility (IPF) at Los Alamos National Laboratory, the Brookhaven Linac Isotope Producer (BLIP) at Brookhaven National Laboratory, and processing facilities at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORL) are the three primary facilities for isotope production.



http://www.euronuclear.org/1-information/news/medical-isotope-crisis.htm


\subsection{Accelerator Based Isotope Production}

Bombarding materials with the neutron flux from a nuclear reactor is a common method used to artificially produced isotopes . We propose to produce isotopes using the bremsstrahlung photons produced by the interaction of an accelerated electron beam with a Tungsten converter in order to remove a proton or neutron from a nucleus. In most cases, the isotope will be produced from nuclei that are naturally abundant and not manmade.

For example, iridium-192, used by industry to test flaws in metals via gamma radiography, can be produced using the neutrons from a nuclear reactor to donate a neutron to iridium-191 forming the isotope iridium-192. A similar process can be used to produce iridium-192 by removing a neutron from iridium-193 using a photon of sufficient energy (13 MeV). Sixty three percent of naturally occurring iridium is in the form of iridium-163 while the remaining fraction of iridium is in the form of iridium-191. Nuclear reactors produce Irridium-192 using the less dominant natural isotope iridium-191. The cross section for the photo-production of iridium -192 from Ir-193 peaks at around 0.5 barns for 13 MeV photons(http://cdfe.sinp.msu.ru/services/exfor/m0049.exf). The thermal neutron capture cross section for Ir-191 is about 400 barns, eight hundred times larger than photo-production of Ir-192 from Ir-193. The photo-production of Ir-192 can theoretically become competitive with the production of Ir-192 from nuclear reactors if the photon flux is more than four hundred times higher, or less costly to produce, than the available neutron flux of more than 10$^{14}$ neutrons/s/cm$^2$.

Although this fundamental calculation provides a quick estimate, there are several application specific areas that need to be evaluated in order to determine how competitive accelerator based isotope production of iridium-192 can be compared to nuclear reactor based production. We propose to construct a tool that can be used to evaluate the production of iridium-192 as well as several other isotopes used by industry and medicine. We have already begun forming a base of researchers interested in receiving isotopes that can be produced using an electron accelerator. The University of Washington, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory have expressed their desire to use isotopes that may be produced at the IAC. As the past isotope crisis has shown, there is a strong need to develop a diverse means of producing isotopes for industry and medicine.


\subsection{Interdisciplinary Research Enabled by the Device}

Photon Activation Analysis (PAA) has been deployed as a research tool at the Idaho Accelerator Center for the past several years thanks mostly to visiting scientist Christian Segabade, one of the developers and leading experts in the field of PAA . The method has been used to quantify the content of materials based on the energy of photons emitted from nucleii that are transitioning from excited states after being pushed there as a result of their exposure to an intense photon beam produced through bremsstrahlung using the IAC's electron accelerators. PAA's most useful attribute is that it requires little to no sample preparation to non-destructively make an accurate measurement of a material's elemental composition.

Since PAA determines the chemical content of a samples under study relative to a calibrated sample with a well known chemical composition. A spectroscopic measurement of the calibrated and unknown samples is performed after each is irradiated by the same photon flux. The resulting element spectra are compared using methods similar to those used by inductively coupled plasma (ICP) mass spectroscopy or atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Some advantages of PAA are that measurements can be made non-destructively, on samples that are a few milligrams or many kilograms, over the entire sample volume and not just on the sample surface, and with little risk of sample contamination. As a result, PAA has been applied to a wide range of research activities such as environmental studies, material science, archaeology, and forensic science. Two specific examples of PAA performed at the IAC are given below.



\subsubsection{Environmental Science}

The extent of the introduction of air borne pollutants, either natural or manmade, has been quantified using PAA. On June 4, 2011, Chile's Puyehue volcano erupted throwing ash more than 6 miles into the atmosphere. The volcano is located in the Puyehue-Cordon Caulle chain of south-central Chile. Four dust samples were collected over a two week period in the area of Puyehue National Park, very near the center of the eruption. Drs Jeronimo Blostein and Romina Daga of the Centro Atomico Bariloche - Instituto Balseiro provided the ash samples that were used to perform a PAA. Figure ~\ref{fig:Puyehue2011} illustrates the concentration of Calcium in the air immediately following the Puyehue eruption. The concentration of Calcium increase about 50 \% just two days after the eruption and remained high for about two weeks.


\begin{figure}[htbp] \begin{center} \mbox{\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/Sample_HpGeSpectrum4PAA.jpg}} \mbox{\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/Puyehue2011.png}} \caption{\small A sample PAA spectrum using a HpGe detector. The concentration change of Calcium of a two week period after the Puyehue eruption on June 4, 2011.} \label{fig:Puyehue2011} \end{center} \end{figure}


\subsubsection{Moon Dust Characterization}


PAA was used to determine the trace elements present in the Minnessota Lunar Simulant 1 (MLS-1) material synthesized to approximate soil sample 10084 from the Apollo 11 mare material. The work was done in collaboration with the University of Colorado, who provided the simulant for the test. Synthesized materials, like MLS-1, were produced to aide in the development of next generation lunar technologies for future lunar missions. Figure~\ref{fig:MonnSim} quantifies PAA's ability to measure the trace elements of this material. The results of this work indicate that PAA was able to reproduce previous measurements of the simulant's chemical composition using a different technique known as differential thermal analysis. PAA also seems to be as precise if not more precise than the previous measurements by Tucker and Setzer.


\begin{figure}[htbp] \begin{center} \mbox{\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/MLS-1_PAAresults_Land.png}} \caption{\small The concentrations of several chemical elements in the Minnessota Lunar Simulant 1 (MLS-1) material. The uncertainty from measurements using PAA are given by the risers is the image and compare with the uncertainties reported by Tucker \& Setzer using a differential Thermal Analysis.} \label{fig:MonnSim} \end{center} \end{figure}


Table of different research areas using PAA.

River sediment research http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007%2FBF02518904?LI=true

Lanthanum research http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/096980439500196K

http://www.springerlink.com/index/Y771268781K46270.pdf


Recent PAA talk about iac work http://proceedings.aip.org/resource/2/apcpcs/1265/1/379_1?isAuthorized=no


Sample HpGeSpectrum4PAA.jpg

c.) Description

\section{Description of Research Instrumentation and Needs (c)} (6 pages)

The Idaho Accelerator Center is currently operating a 40 MeV electron linac for the purpose of evaluating the viability of producing copper-67 as a medical isotope. Figure ~\ref{fig:JackPlusPhotonFlux} represents a view of the beam line looking upstream from the exit window of the linac. Electrons impinging the tungsten target produce copious amounts of photons via Brehmsstrahlung. Figure~\ref{fig:JackPlusPhotonFlux} shows the flux of photons immediately downstream of the tungsten radiator. Samples with cross-sectional area of one square cm will be irradiated by at least 10$^{15}$ photons/sec/cm$^2$. A flux of similar magnitude as the neutrons from reactors used to produce isotopes. This flux is attenuated to about 10$^{12}$ photons/sec/cm$^2$ after passing through the zinc used for copper-67 production.

The specific activity of isotopes produced is dependent on the sample's alignment with respect to the incident photon flux. Figure ~\ref{fig:JackPlusPhotonFlux} shows a rapid decrease of photon flux as you move half a centimeter away from the accelerator's central axis. This sharp decrease in flux reduces can result in a decrease in activity for samples that are not aligned with the photon flux at the mm level. Previous measurements at the IAC have observed reductions in copper-67 activities of more than 50\% when the zinc sample is misaligned by 5 mm. A system to detect the photon flux distribution is needed to maximize the activity of isotope production.


\begin{figure}[htbp] \begin{center} \mbox{\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/JackAccelPhoto_02072013.png}} \includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/frontZn.jpg} \caption{\small A picture of the Idaho Accelerator Center's 44 MeV linac to be used as the foundation for an Isotope production and PAA tool. The photon flux a\ fter the radiator is shown.} \label{fig:JackPlusPhotonFlux} \end{center} \end{figure}


\subsection{CVD detectors}

A set of photon detectors (CVD diamond film based) will be purchased and mounted on a movable platform that will sweep the detectors through the Brehmmstrahlung beam measuring its profile. Research on the use of synthetic diamond as an ionization detector~\cite{Tapper2000} has matured to the point that detectors are being manufactured for purchase. Figure~\ref{fig:CVDdiamondDetector} show the detector packages that is available from CIVIDEC Instrumentation. The manufacturer specifications indicate that a CVD diamond detector with a photon flux of 10$^9$ to 10$^{12}$ photons/sec/cm$^2$ entering its acceptance should produce an output signal between 50 mV to 5 V in a 50$\Omega$ system if a 40dB amplifier is used. The amplifier is a RF broadband amplifier with 2 GHz analog bandwith. It has the advantage that you will see all single photon pulses which are extracted from the LINAC, possibly also the RF structure of the LINAC.

We propose to construct a photon detection system using six of these detectors to measure the photon beam profile in the region surround the sample. Each detector will have 3mm electrodes and be fixed to a translation stage that will move the detectors across the photon beam in order to measure its profile. The incident electron current can be scanned in order to confirm the detectors range of operation that is specified by the vendor. The system will be used to determine the correct position of the electron beam that will align the photon flux field with the sample. One detector will be positioned behind the sample to monitor the flux during the irradiation period.


Journal: Nuclear Instruments & Methods in Physics Research Section A-accelerators Spectrometers Detectors and Associated Equipment - NUCL INSTRUM METH PHYS RES A , vol. 524, no. 1, pp. 115-123, 2004

Diamond detectors in particle physics, R J Tapper, Rep. Prog. Phys. 63 (2000) 1273–1316.

\begin{figure}[htbp] \begin{center} \includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/B4_CVD_DiamondDetextor.png} \caption{\small A packaged CVD diamond high photon flux detector manufactured by Cividec. } \label{fig:CVDdiamondDetector} \end{center} \end{figure}


\subsection{Transport System}

A preliminary layout of the transport system ("Rabbit") is shown in Figure~\ref{fig:TransportSystem}. Samples are removed by a nematic arm from the exit port of the accelerator. The sample will be loaded into the proposed transport system ("Rabbit") which will move the sample out of the high radiation area where users can collect the sample. If needed the sample can be lowered into a lead shield outside of the high radiation area. The middle picture illustrate the innovative drive system used by OCS IntelliTrak to move the sample along a drive shaft. Figure~\ref{fig:TransportSystem}. OCS IntelliTrak has quoted the cost of \$38,318 for the system shown in the bottom of Figure~\ref{fig:TransportSystem} and will install the system for \$11,400, see attached quote.

\begin{figure}[htbp] \begin{center} \mbox{\includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/WhiteRoomEndStation_02072013.png}} \includegraphics*[width=9cm]{Graphs/500-DriveTube.jpg} \caption{\small An illustration of the drive system from OCS IntelliTrack which will be used to construct a ``Rabbit conveyor system to remove samples from the high radiation area.} \label{fig:TransportSystem} \end{center} \end{figure}


\subsection{Electron Beam Control and Monitoring Components}


A set of beam position monitors (BPMs) will be installed along with steering coils in order to correlate the incident electron beam position with the photon flux distribution measured by the CVD diamond detectors. The photon flux can then be maximized in the region of the sample in order to optimize the sample activity. After measuring the photon distribution, the detectors will be parked behind the sample in order to directly measure the photon flux during irradiation. A measurement of the flux during irradiation will document its stability and quanitfy the amount of incident radiation. An online data acquition system will provide a feedback system between the beam position monitors and the diamond photon flux detectors.

A 5 kGauss bending magnet will also be procured to sweep electrons away from the sample. The magnet will have a 4" x 3" footprint in order to minimize the distance between the tungsten converter target and the sample holder. Sample heating is expected to be reduced by least 80\% and allow an increase in the photon flux beyond that predicted in Figure~\ref{fig:JackPlusPhotonFlux}.

d.) Impact

\section{Impact on Research and Training Infrastructure (d)} ( 2 pages)

The proposed instrument will be a facility for performing research on isotope production as well as a tool for performing photon activation analysis, and training accelerator physicists. The research on copper isotopes is well underway and quickly approaching a point where production for consumption is likely. The production of other isotopes for industry and research will also be under investigation using this device. At least three institutions have provide letter of interest in this tool should it become available. The goal is to create a funding stream from the production of isotopes that will sustain the maintenance of the tool so it can be available as a research platform and a training facility for students.

The instrument will be an opportunity to train students in the operation of an electron accelerator as well as the techniques for isotope production and PAA. Graduate students, once trained, would operate the accelerator as a means of supporting their studies at ISU.

e.) Management

\section{Management Plan (e)} ( 2 pages)

The design, construction, and commissioning phases of the project are outlined in Table~\ref{table:Timeline}.

Although most of the equipment will be procured from established vendors, expertise in several areas during installation and assembly is required. The Idaho Accelerator Center will provide an engineer to oversee the installation the transport system by OCS IntelliTrak as well as the installation of a translation stage for the CVD diamond detectors. The PI of this proposal will be responsible for installing the data acquisition system and associated feedback system. The CoPIs have an established record of isotope production and PAA as well as ongoing research programs. Once most of the equipment has been installed and commission, the CoPIs will evaluate the systems performance in year two as part of their ongoing research program in isotope production and PAA. Their research programs will be used to benchmark the performance of this tool in year two.

Most of the elements in this project have low risk for success. The CVD diamond detector system used to monitor the photon flux, however, will be challenged to be viable at very high photon fluxes. The position of these detectors will be re-evaluate in the event that the system saturates above photon fluxes of 10$^{12}$ photons/s/cm$^2$. Moving the devices downstream will reduce the photon flux thereby mitigating the risks.


The Idaho Accelerator Center has an established record of managing a facility serving the needs of interdisciplinary researchers that use beams of electrons or photons in their research. This proposal requests the procurement of two main pieces of equipment that, when combined, serve as an integrated instrument for the production of Isotopes and Photon Activation Analysis. Once deployed, the tool will become a valued addition to the resources currently being managed and made readily available to other researchers for their use.


The long term operations and maintenance plan will rely on the instruments ability to attract users. At least three organization have expressed an interest in using the tool. The growth of demand for medical isotopes and observed vulnerability of isotope production is a strong indication that the instrument will be in demand should its ability to produce isotopes become well established.

References

\begin{thebibliography}{99}

\bibitem{FY2013CongBudgetOff} FY2013 Cngressionl Budget (http://science.energy.gov/~/media/budget/pdf/sc-budget-request-to-congress/fy-2013/Cong_Budget_2013_IsoptopeProductionandDistributionProgramFunding.pdf) \bibitem{Tapper2000}"Diamond detectors in particle physics" , R J Tapper, Rep. Prog. Phys. 63 (2000) 1273–1316.

\end{thebibliography}

Bio Sketeches

Budget

\section{Budget}


\begin{table}[h] \begin{center} \begin{tabular}{ccc} \multicolumn{1}{c}{Cost} & \multicolumn{1}{c}{Match} & \multicolumn{1}{c}{Description} \\ \hline\hline 70,000 & Y & Conveyor system for isotope samples \\ 20,000 & N & 2 electron Beam Position Monitors, steering coils, and power supplies\\ 50,000 & N & CVD diamond detectors \\ 28,000 & N & Data Acquisition System \\ 4,200 & N & Bending Magnet \\ 6,000 & N & Materials \& Supplies\\ 25,241 & Y & Professional \& Technical Services \\ \hline \end{tabular} \caption{Budget: Total expenses = \$203,441, Available Match \$61,241 (30 \%)} \end{center} \label{table:Projects} \end{table}


Budget Justification.

OCS IntelliTrack, Inc has estimated that the transport system can be acquired for \$70,000. The system will be able to move up to a 100 lb mass from the user (low radiation) area to the end station (a high radiation area). A set of beam position monitors and associated readout electronics from Bergoz instrumentation can be purchased for 5,340 euros each. An amount of \$20,000 has been budgeted to include coil steerers, power supplies, and fluctuations of the US dollar with respect to the Euro. A quote from CIVIDEC instrumentation estimates the procurement cost of a single 3mm effective area CVD diamond detector at about 6,000 euros. I have budgeted \$50,000 for four of these CVD diamond detectors and the translation stages need to sweep them through the beam using a worm gear system that has analog position encoding. A modern VME based DAQ system with EPICs monitoring is estimated to cost \$28,000 and will include a 32 channel ADC (\$6k), a readout controller(\$3k), a miniCrate(\$4k), a host server (\$2k), a trigger supervisor (\$3k) and a NIM Discriminator /Trigger/ECL output module (\$10k). A 5 kGauss bending magnet will be purchased for \$4,200 to sweep the incident electron beam away from the sample to reduce sample heating.

The Idaho Accelerator Center will provide a cost match of \$36,000 towards the procurement of the transport system as well as \$25,241 in manpower to install the transport system and CVD detector translation stages. These funds will be part of the second year budget from a State grant awarded under the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission (IGEM).

Current & Pending

Facilities

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