Development of an energy selector system for laser-driven proton beam applications

V. Scuderi*, S. Bijan Jia, M. Carpinelli, G. A.P. Cirrone, G. Cuttone, G. Korn, T. Licciardello, M. Maggiore, D. Margarone, P. Pisciotta, F. Romano, F. Schillaci, C. Stancampiano, A. Tramontana

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

33 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Nowadays, laser-driven proton beams generated by the interaction of high power lasers with solid targets represent a fascinating attraction in the field of the new acceleration techniques. These beams can be potentially accelerated up to hundreds of MeV and, therefore, they can represent a promising opportunity for medical applications. Laser-accelerated proton beams typically show high flux (up to 1011 particles per bunch), very short temporal profile (ps), broad energy spectra and poor reproducibility. In order to overcome these limitations, these beams have be controlled and transported by means of a proper beam handling system. Furthermore, suitable dosimetric diagnostic systems must be developed and tested. In the framework of the ELIMED project, we started to design a dedicated beam transport line and we have developed a first prototype of a beam line key-element: an Energy Selector System (ESS). It is based on permanent dipoles, capable to control and select in energy laser-accelerated proton beams. Monte Carlo simulations and some preliminary experimental tests have been already performed to characterize the device. A calibration of the ESS system with a conventional proton beam will be performed in September at the LNS in Catania. Moreover, an experimental campaign with laser-driven proton beam at the Centre for Plasma Physics, Queens University in Belfast is already scheduled and will be completed within 2014.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)87-93
Number of pages7
JournalNuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research, Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment
Volume740
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 11 Mar 2014
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Beam handling
  • Laser-driven beams
  • Magnetic systems
  • Medical applications

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Nuclear and High Energy Physics
  • Instrumentation

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Development of an energy selector system for laser-driven proton beam applications'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this