Compact X-Band Electron Linac for Radiotherapy and Security Applications

RadiaBeam has developed a 6 MeV accelerator that is compact and light enough to be placed on a robotic arm or light truck. The main drivers of size and weight in conventional accelerators are the power source and the shielding. Small dimensions are enabled by operation at 9.3 GHz frequency (X-band), which allows reducing the size and weight of all accelerator components. Thanks to the robust design of the accelerating structure, the accelerator can be used as a source for novel cargo inspection and radiotherapy techniques. In this paper, we present the linac design and its components, as well the results of the experimental demonstration of beam acceleration.

Thermionic microwave gun for terahertz and synchrotron light sources

Conventional thermionic microwave and radio frequency (RF) guns can offer high average beam current, which is important for synchrotron light and terahertz (THz) radiation source facilities, as well as for industrial applications. For example, the Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory is a national synchrotron-radiation light source research facility that utilizes thermionic RF guns. However, these existing thermionic guns are bulky, difficult to handle and install, easily detuned, very sensitive to thermal expansion, and due for a major upgrade and replacement. In this paper, we present the design of a new, more stable, and reliable gun with optimized electromagnetic performance, improved thermal engineering, and a more robust cathode mounting technique, which is a critical step to improve the performance of existing and future light sources, industrial accelerators, and electron beam-driven THz sources. We will also present a fabricated gun prototype and show results of high-power and beam tests.