Fast neutron yields and spectra from targets of varying atomic number bombarded with deuterons from 16 to 50 MeV (for radiobiology and radiotherapy)

Abstract

Neutron production from targets of Be, C, Mo, Cu, Ta and Au bombarded with deuterons of 16, 33 and 50 MeV has been studied at the isochronous cyclotron at Louvain-la-Neuve. Neutron spectra were measured by the time of flight method. The yields of neutrons and gamma rays were also measured, and the greatest ratio of neutrons to gamma rays in the forward direction was found to occur with 50 MeV deuterons on a Be target. The angular distribution of neutrons from Be was measured at 16, 33 and 50 MeV, and neutron spectra were measured as function of angle with 50 MeV deuterons on Be.