Neutron target module for boron neutron capture therapy

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a neutron target module for boron neutron capture therapy, comprising: a neutron target substrate, comprising a substrate and a target layer arranged on one side of the substrate; a container connected to a first side of the neutron target substrate, the container having a vacuum cavity, and the target layer is opposite to the vacuum cavity; and a water cooling plate connected to a second side of the neutron target substrate, the water cooling plate is detachably connected to the neutron target substrate, and the water cooling plate is internally configured with an inlet flow channel and an outlet flow channel, and the water cooling plate is used for cooling the neutron target substrate. The neutron target module of the present disclosure is provided with a container and a water cooling plate on the opposite sides of the neutron target substrate, the cooling flow channel in the water cooling plate and the vacuum cavity are isolated from each other, which can effectively prevent the cooling liquid from leaking into the vacuum cavity, and ensure the safety in use. In addition, the water cooling plate is detachably connected to the neutron target substrate, and by replacing the water cooling plate, it is convenient to realize the multiple cooling requirements of the neutron target substrate.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of neutron therapy equipment technology, and more particularly to a neutron target module for boron neutron capture therapy. Background Technology

[0002] Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a binary tumor treatment method that combines a thermal neutron beam with a tumor-loving boron-doped drug. BNCT utilizes the capture reaction between boron atoms and thermal neutrons to release alpha ions and lithium ions with a range approximately equal to the radius of cancer cells, destroying the genetic material of cancer cells and thus achieving a therapeutic effect on tumors.

[0003] The neutron target is the component in a BNCT device that receives proton beams to generate neutrons. Energy deposition occurs when the neutron target is bombarded by a proton beam, necessitating cooling during use. Different treatment methods produce neutrons with varying energies, thus requiring different cooling solutions for the neutron target. Currently, cooling components or cooling channels are typically integrated with the neutron target, which cannot meet the diverse cooling needs of the target and also presents the problem of coolant leakage into the vacuum chamber. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of this, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a neutron target module for boron neutron capture therapy, which solves the problems of coolant leakage and inability to meet various cooling requirements in existing neutron target therapy equipment.

[0005] Embodiments of this disclosure provide a neutron target module for boron neutron capture therapy, comprising:

[0006] A neutron target substrate includes a substrate and a target layer disposed on one side of the substrate;

[0007] A container, connected to a first side of the neutron target substrate, the container having a vacuum cavity, the target layer opposite the vacuum cavity; and

[0008] A water-cooled plate is connected to the second side of the neutron target substrate. The water-cooled plate is detachably connected to the neutron target substrate. The water-cooled plate has an inlet flow channel and an outlet flow channel. The water-cooled plate is used to cool the neutron target substrate.

[0009] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the water-cooled plate is provided with a first connecting hole, and a plurality of the first connecting holes are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the water-cooled plate;

[0010] The neutron target substrate is provided with a second connection hole, and a plurality of the second connection holes are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the neutron target substrate;

[0011] The first connecting hole and the second connecting hole are connected by a first fastener.

[0012] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the water-cooled plate has a limiting groove on the side facing the neutron target substrate, and the two opposite end faces of the neutron target substrate are in contact with the two opposite groove wall surfaces of the limiting groove.

[0013] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the neutron target substrate has a receiving groove on the side facing the water-cooled plate, and a plurality of partitions are arranged at intervals in the receiving groove, the plurality of partitions forming a microchannel;

[0014] The inlet channel, the microchannel, and the outlet channel are interconnected.

[0015] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a first sealing groove is provided on the side of the neutron target substrate facing the water-cooled plate, and the first sealing groove is located on the outside of the microchannel;

[0016] The neutron target module further includes a first sealing element, which is embedded in the first sealing groove and sandwiched between the opposing surfaces of the neutron target substrate and the water-cooled plate.

[0017] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the container includes:

[0018] A first vacuum conduit, the first vacuum conduit comprising stainless steel components; and

[0019] The second vacuum pipe has one end connected to the first vacuum pipe and the other end connected to the neutron target substrate. The second vacuum pipe includes an aluminum alloy component.

[0020] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the neutron target module further includes a cooling pipe disposed on the outer wall of the second vacuum pipe for cooling the second vacuum pipe.

[0021] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, the outer wall surface of the second vacuum pipe is provided with a groove, and the cooling pipe is embedded in the groove;

[0022] Multiple grooves are arranged at intervals along the outer wall of the second vacuum pipe, and multiple cooling pipes are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with multiple grooves.

[0023] According to an embodiment of this disclosure, one of the second vacuum pipe and the neutron target substrate is provided with a second sealing groove;

[0024] The neutron target module further includes a second sealing element, which is embedded in the second sealing groove and sandwiched between the opposing surfaces of the second vacuum pipe and the neutron target substrate; and / or

[0025] One of the first vacuum pipe and the second vacuum pipe is provided with a third sealing groove;

[0026] The neutron target module also includes a third sealing element, which is embedded in the third sealing groove and sandwiched between the opposite surfaces of the first vacuum pipe and the second vacuum pipe.

[0027] According to embodiments of this disclosure, the neutron target module further includes a gate valve connected to the end of the container away from the neutron target substrate.

[0028] The neutron target module for boron neutron capture therapy provided in the embodiments of this disclosure can achieve at least the following technical effects: the container and the water-cooled plate are disposed on opposite sides of the neutron target substrate, and the cooling channels and vacuum chamber in the water-cooled plate are isolated from each other, which can effectively prevent coolant from leaking into the vacuum chamber and ensure the safety of use. In addition, the water-cooled plate and the neutron target substrate are detachably connected, and by replacing the water-cooled plate, it is convenient to meet various cooling needs of the neutron target substrate. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The above and other objects, features and advantages of this disclosure will become clearer from the following description of embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0030] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of a neutron target module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0031] Figure 2 A partial structural diagram of a neutron target module according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0032] Figure 3 The diagram illustrates an assembly of a neutron target substrate and a water-cooled plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 4 An exploded view of a neutron target substrate and a water-cooled plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown schematically.

[0034] Figure 5A The schematic diagram illustrates one of the structural schematic diagrams of a neutron target substrate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 5B A second schematic diagram of the structure of a neutron target substrate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0036] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of the structure of a water-cooled plate according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0037] Figure 7The diagram schematically illustrates the internal structure of the neutron target substrate and water-cooled plate assembly according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0038] Figure 8 A schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a second vacuum pipe according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0039] Figure 9 A schematic diagram of the structure of a first vacuum conduit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

[0040] Figure label:

[0041] 10: Neutron target substrate; 11: Second connecting hole; 12: Receiving groove; 13: Partition; 14: Microchannel; 15: Fourth connecting hole; 16: First sealing groove; 20: Water-cooled plate; 21: Liquid inlet channel; 22: Liquid outlet channel; 23: Liquid inlet pipe; 24: Liquid outlet pipe; 25: First connecting hole; 26: Limiting groove; 30: Container; 31: First vacuum pipe; 311: First pipe body; 312: First flange; 313: Second flange; 3131: Third sealing groove; 32: Second vacuum pipe; 321: Second pipe body; 322: Third flange; 323: Fourth flange; 3231: Third connecting hole; 3232: Second sealing groove; 40: Cooling pipe; 50: Slide valve; 61: First fastener; 62: Second fastener; 63: Third fastener; 64: Fourth fastener. Detailed Implementation

[0042] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with specific embodiments and accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this disclosure. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this disclosure without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this disclosure.

[0043] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit this disclosure. The terms “comprising,” “including,” etc., as used herein indicate the presence of the stated features, steps, operations, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, steps, operations, or components.

[0044] In the description of this disclosure, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linkage" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure based on the specific circumstances.

[0045] Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a binary tumor treatment method that combines a thermal neutron beam with a tumor-loving boron-doped drug. BNCT utilizes the capture reaction between boron atoms and thermal neutrons to release alpha ions and lithium ions with a range approximately equal to the radius of cancer cells, destroying the genetic material of cancer cells and thus achieving a therapeutic effect on tumors.

[0046] Boron neutron capture therapy devices with proton energies below 3 MeV typically employ lithium targets. Lithium has a very low melting point of only 180.5 °C, making solid lithium targets prone to melting under heat. This necessitates effective cooling methods or the use of rotating targets to prevent lithium evaporation. Different treatment methods produce different neutron energies, leading to varying cooling requirements for the lithium target substrate. Currently, cooling components or cooling channels are often integrated with the lithium target substrate, which cannot meet the diverse cooling needs of the lithium target substrate.

[0047] The following is combined with Figures 1 to 9 This disclosure describes a neutron target module for boron neutron capture therapy, based on embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] like Figures 1 to 4 As shown, in the embodiments of this disclosure, the neutron target module includes a neutron target substrate 10, a container 30, and a water-cooled plate 20. The neutron target substrate 10 includes a substrate and a target layer disposed on one side of the substrate. The container 30 is connected to a first side of the neutron target substrate 10, and the container 30 has a vacuum cavity, with the target layer opposite to the vacuum cavity. The water-cooled plate 20 is connected to a second side of the neutron target substrate 10, and the water-cooled plate 20 is detachably connected to the neutron target substrate 10. The water-cooled plate 20 has an inlet channel 21 and an outlet channel 22, and is used to cool the neutron target substrate 10.

[0049] The neutron target substrate 10 can be fabricated by laminating a substrate and a target layer. The substrate includes copper substrates, aluminum substrates, etc., and the substrate material is selected based on its excellent thermal conductivity. The target layer includes lithium layers, beryllium layers, etc. The neutron target substrate 10 can also be fabricated by laminating a copper substrate and a lithium layer; the neutron target substrate 10 formed by laminating a copper substrate and a lithium layer is defined as a lithium target substrate. The shape of the neutron target substrate 10 is not specifically limited; it can be circular, square, etc.

[0050] The thickness of the lithium target substrate is set according to actual needs, and can be 6~10mm. For example, the thickness of the lithium target substrate can be 9mm, and when the thickness of the lithium target substrate is 9mm, the thickness of the lithium layer is approximately 0.2mm.

[0051] Along the thickness direction of the neutron target substrate 10, the neutron target substrate 10 has opposing first and second sides. A container 30 is connected to the first side of the neutron target substrate 10, and a water-cooled plate 20 is connected to the second side of the neutron target substrate 10. Along the thickness direction of the neutron target substrate 10, the neutron target substrate 10 has opposing first and second surfaces. The first surface is in contact with the end face of the container 30, and the second surface is in contact with the water-cooled plate 20. The container 30 can be connected to the neutron target substrate 10 by screwing. The container 30 has a vacuum chamber, and the target layer of the neutron target substrate 10 is opposite to the vacuum chamber.

[0052] In some embodiments, such as Figure 4 As shown, the water-cooled plate 20 has an inlet channel 21 and an outlet channel 22, which are interconnected. Coolant flows within the water-cooled plate 20 and can directly contact the second surface of the neutron target substrate 10. As the coolant flows from the inlet channel 21 to the outlet channel 22, it passes over the second surface of the neutron target substrate 10, thus cooling the neutron target substrate 10. The coolant includes water, ethylene glycol, oil, etc.

[0053] In some embodiments, such as Figure 7 As shown, a microchannel 14 is provided on the second surface of the neutron target substrate 10, and the liquid inlet channel 21, the microchannel 14 and the liquid outlet channel 22 are interconnected. Coolant can flow through the liquid inlet channel 21, the microchannel 14 and the liquid outlet channel 22 to cool the neutron target substrate 10.

[0054] A cooling channel for coolant flow is formed between the second surface of the neutron target substrate 10 and the water-cooled plate 20, and a vacuum cavity is formed between the first surface of the neutron target substrate 10 and the container 30. The vacuum cavity and the cooling channel are completely isolated, which can effectively prevent coolant from flowing into the vacuum cavity.

[0055] If coolant flows into the vacuum chamber, it will react chemically with the lithium layer, which could lead to an explosion and affect the safety of use.

[0056] In some embodiments, the water-cooled plate 20 is further provided with an inlet pipe 23 and an outlet pipe 24. The inlet pipe 23 is connected to the inlet flow channel 21, and the outlet pipe 24 is connected to the outlet flow channel 22. The inlet pipe 23 can be connected to a first liquid pump to pump coolant into the water-cooled plate 20.

[0057] In some embodiments, the water-cooled plate 20 can be connected to the neutron target substrate 10 by means of screwing, snap-fitting, etc.

[0058] Depending on the required neutron beam intensity during treatment, the proton beam bombards the neutron target substrate 10, generating neutron energies that are roughly divided into three segments: the first segment has neutron energies less than 0.5 eV, the second segment has neutron energies between 0.5 eV and 10 keV, and the third segment has neutron energies greater than 10 keV. Correspondingly, the cooling requirements for the neutron target substrate 10 differ. The higher the neutron energy, the greater the cooling requirement for the neutron target substrate 10.

[0059] The flow rate of coolant can be adjusted by adjusting parameters such as the diameter of the inlet pipe 23 or the outlet pipe 24, and the size and shape of the inlet flow channel 21 or the outlet flow channel 22, thereby achieving different cooling requirements for the neutron target substrate 10.

[0060] The neutron target module can be equipped with multiple water-cooled plates 20. Each water-cooled plate 20 has a different internal structure and a different flow rate of coolant. By replacing the water-cooled plates 20, various cooling requirements for the neutron target substrate 10 can be met.

[0061] In the embodiments of this disclosure, the container 30 and the water-cooled plate 20 are disposed on opposite sides of the neutron target substrate 10. The cooling channels and vacuum chambers in the water-cooled plate 20 are isolated from each other, which can effectively prevent coolant from leaking into the vacuum chamber and ensure the safety of use. In addition, the water-cooled plate 20 is detachably connected to the neutron target substrate 10. By replacing the water-cooled plate 20, it is convenient to meet various cooling needs of the neutron target substrate 10.

[0062] like Figure 2 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 6 As shown, in an optional embodiment, the water-cooled plate 20 is provided with first connection holes 25, and a plurality of first connection holes 25 are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the water-cooled plate 20. The neutron target substrate 10 is provided with second connection holes 11, and a plurality of second connection holes 11 are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the neutron target substrate 10. The first connection holes 25 and the second connection holes 11 are connected by first fasteners 61.

[0063] The number of first connecting holes 25 and second connecting holes 11 is set according to actual needs. For example, there are twenty first connecting holes 25 and twenty second connecting holes 11. The twenty first connecting holes 25 are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the water-cooled plate 20, and the twenty second connecting holes 11 are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the neutron target substrate 10.

[0064] Optionally, both the first connecting hole 25 and the second connecting hole 11 can be through holes, and the first fastener 61 includes a bolt and a nut. The bolt passes through the first connecting hole 25 and the second connecting hole 11, and the nut is tightened to connect the neutron target substrate 10 and the water-cooled plate 20.

[0065] Optionally, the first connecting hole 25 is a through hole, and the second connecting hole 11 is a threaded hole. The first fastener 61 includes a screw, which is screwed into the first connecting hole 25 and the second connecting hole 11 in sequence to connect the neutron target substrate 10 and the water-cooled plate 20. The screw includes a countersunk screw. The connection between the water-cooled plate 20 and the neutron target substrate 10 via screws facilitates disassembly.

[0066] In the embodiments of this disclosure, the water-cooled plate 20 and the neutron target substrate 10 are screwed together by a first fastener 61, which facilitates installation and disassembly and also improves the firmness of the connection between the two.

[0067] like Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, in an optional embodiment, the water-cooled plate 20 has a limiting groove 26 on the side facing the neutron target substrate 10, and the two opposite end faces of the neutron target substrate 10 are in contact with the two opposite groove wall surfaces of the limiting groove 26.

[0068] In some embodiments, both the neutron target substrate 10 and the water-cooled plate 20 can be rectangular. The length of the neutron target substrate 10 is smaller than the length of the water-cooled plate 20, and the width of the neutron target substrate 10 can be the same as the width of the water-cooled plate 20.

[0069] A limiting groove 26 is formed by a recess on one surface of the water-cooled plate 20. The limiting groove 26 has a bottom surface and two opposing groove walls, defined as a first groove wall and a second groove wall. The distance between the first groove wall and the second groove wall is adapted to the length dimension of the neutron target substrate 10. The depth of the limiting groove 26 is adapted to the thickness of the neutron target substrate 10.

[0070] The neutron target substrate 10 is placed in the limiting groove 26, the second surface of the neutron target substrate 10 is in contact with the bottom surface of the groove, and the two opposite end faces of the neutron target substrate 10 are in contact with the first groove wall and the second groove wall respectively.

[0071] In the embodiments of this disclosure, during the assembly of the neutron target substrate 10 and the water-cooled plate 20, the limiting groove 26 can play a preliminary positioning role; after the neutron target substrate 10 and the water-cooled plate 20 are connected by the first fastener 61, the limiting groove 26 plays a certain limiting role on the neutron target substrate 10, which is conducive to further improving the firmness of the connection between the two.

[0072] like Figure 5B and Figure 7 As shown, in an optional embodiment, the neutron target substrate 10 has a receiving groove 12 on the side facing the water-cooled plate 20. The receiving groove 12 has multiple partitions 13 arranged at intervals, and the multiple partitions 13 form a microchannel 14. The liquid inlet channel 21, the microchannel 14 and the liquid outlet channel 22 are interconnected.

[0073] In some embodiments, microchannels 14 can be fabricated on the substrate of the neutron target substrate 10 using machining processes. The microchannels 14 can be composed of multiple spacers 13, which can be arranged in an array. After fabricating the microchannels 14 on the substrate, a target layer is pressed onto the other side of the substrate. A support plate coupled to the microchannels 14 can be prepared first. During the pressing process, the support plate is combined with the substrate, which can prevent the multiple spacers 13 from deforming under pressure.

[0074] In some embodiments, the inlet channel 21 and the outlet channel 22 are spaced apart along the length of the water-cooled plate 20. The extending direction of the inlet channel 21 and the outlet channel 22 is consistent with the width direction of the water-cooled plate 20. The inlet pipe 23 is disposed near the inlet channel 21, and the outlet pipe 24 is disposed near the outlet channel 22. The extending direction of the baffle 13 is consistent with the length direction of the water-cooled plate 20. A plurality of baffles 13 are located in the region between the inlet channel 21 and the outlet channel 22, and the coolant can flow through the gap between two adjacent baffles 13.

[0075] In the embodiments of this disclosure, the inlet channel 21 and outlet channel 22 in the water-cooled plate 20 and the microchannel 14 at the neutron target substrate 10 constitute the cooling channel for the flow of coolant. During the flow of coolant through the microchannel 14, it has a large contact area with the neutron target substrate 10, which is beneficial to improving the cooling rate of the neutron target substrate 10.

[0076] like Figure 5B As shown, in an optional embodiment, a first sealing groove 16 is provided on the side of the neutron target substrate 10 facing the water-cooled plate 20, and the first sealing groove 16 is located outside the microchannel 14. The neutron target module also includes a first sealing member, which is embedded in the first sealing groove 16 and sandwiched between the opposing surfaces of the neutron target substrate 10 and the water-cooled plate 20.

[0077] A first sealing groove 16 is formed by recessing the second surface of the neutron target substrate 10 toward the first surface. The first sealing groove 16 may be in the shape of a U-shape. It is understood that the first sealing groove 16 is located on the outside of the microchannel 14.

[0078] The first sealing element can be a sealing ring, which can be a fluororubber sealing ring, and the sealing ring is embedded in the first sealing groove 16. After the neutron target substrate 10 and the water-cooled plate 20 are connected by the first fastener 61, the sealing ring is sandwiched between the two to ensure the sealing of the connection between the neutron target substrate 10 and the water-cooled plate 20, and can effectively prevent coolant leakage.

[0079] In the embodiments of this disclosure, a first seal is provided between the opposing surfaces of the neutron target substrate 10 and the water-cooled plate 20 to ensure the sealing of the connection between the two and effectively prevent coolant leakage.

[0080] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, in an optional embodiment, container 30 includes a first vacuum conduit 31 and a second vacuum conduit 32. The first vacuum conduit 31 is made of stainless steel. One end of the second vacuum conduit 32 is connected to the first vacuum conduit 31, and the other end is connected to the neutron target substrate 10. The second vacuum conduit 32 is made of aluminum alloy.

[0081] In some embodiments, the container 30 is formed by splicing a first vacuum pipe 31 and a second vacuum pipe 32. The first vacuum pipe 31 is made of stainless steel, and the second vacuum pipe 32 is made of aluminum alloy. The first vacuum pipe 31 and the second vacuum pipe 32 can be connected by screws, and the second vacuum pipe 32 and the neutron target substrate 10 can be connected by screws.

[0082] A solenoid valve is connected to the first vacuum pipe 31, and the solenoid valve is connected to the vacuum pump to evacuate the container 30. To ensure structural strength, the first vacuum pipe 31 is made of stainless steel. To prevent activation phenomena caused by proton beams hitting the vacuum pipe, which could generate unwanted gamma rays, the second vacuum pipe 32 is made of aluminum alloy. The aluminum alloy can be 6061 aluminum alloy.

[0083] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 , Figure 8 and Figure 9As shown, the first vacuum pipe 31 can be circular, and the second vacuum pipe 32 can be square. The first vacuum pipe 31 includes a first pipe body 311 and a first flange 312 and a second flange 313 connected to opposite ends of the first pipe body 311. The first pipe body 311 is a hollow cylindrical body, and the first flange 312 and the second flange 313 are circular flanges. The second vacuum pipe 32 includes a second pipe body 321 and a third flange 322 and a fourth flange 323 connected to opposite ends of the second pipe body 321. The second pipe body 321 is a hollow square body, the third flange 322 is a circular flange, and the fourth flange 323 is a square flange.

[0084] like Figure 2 , Figure 5A , Figure 5B and Figure 8 As shown, the fourth flange 323 and the neutron target substrate 10 can be connected by a second fastener 62. The fourth flange 323 is provided with a third connecting hole 3231, and the neutron target substrate 10 is provided with a fourth connecting hole 15. The number of the third connecting hole 3231 and the fourth connecting hole 15 is set according to actual needs. One of the third connecting hole 3231 and the fourth connecting hole 15 can be a through hole, and the other can be a threaded hole. The second fastener 62 includes screws, which are screwed into the through hole and the threaded hole to realize the connection between the fourth flange 323 and the neutron target substrate 10.

[0085] like Figure 2 , Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, the second flange 313 and the third flange 322 can be connected by a third fastener 63. The second flange 313 has a fifth connecting hole, and the third flange 322 has a sixth connecting hole. The number of the fifth and sixth connecting holes is set according to actual needs. Both the fifth and sixth connecting holes can be through holes. The third fastener 63 includes a bolt and a nut. The bolt passes through the fifth and sixth connecting holes to achieve the connection between the second flange 313 and the third flange 322.

[0086] The second flange 313 and the third flange 322 are screwed together by the third fastener 63, and the fourth flange 323 and the neutron target substrate 10 are screwed together by the second fastener 62. This facilitates the assembly of the first vacuum pipe 31, the second vacuum pipe 32 and the neutron target substrate 10, and also facilitates maintenance.

[0087] In the embodiments of this disclosure, the container 30 is assembled from a first vacuum pipe 31 and a second vacuum pipe 32. The first vacuum pipe 31 and the second vacuum pipe 32 are made of stainless steel and aluminum alloy, respectively. This can ensure the structural strength during the vacuuming process and prevent the proton beam from hitting the wall of the vacuum pipe and causing an activation reaction, thus avoiding unwanted radiation from being mixed in with the generated neutron beam.

[0088] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 8 As shown, in an optional embodiment, the neutron target module further includes a cooling pipe 40, which is disposed on the outer wall of the second vacuum pipe 32 and is used to cool the second vacuum pipe 32.

[0089] During the bombardment of the proton target substrate 10 by the proton beam, some of the protons will hit the wall of the second vacuum channel 32. The heat deposited on the second vacuum channel 32 by the proton beam will cause the channel temperature to become too high, affecting the service life of the channel. In addition, the excessive temperature of the second vacuum channel 32 will cause the temperature inside the vacuum chamber to rise, which may lead to problems such as melting and evaporation of the target layer.

[0090] In some embodiments, the cooling pipe 40 may be made of copper tubing. The cooling pipe 40 may be spirally wound around the outer wall of the second vacuum pipe 32, or the cooling pipe 40 may be arranged in a reciprocating and meandering manner on the outer wall of the second vacuum pipe 32.

[0091] One end of the cooling pipe 40 is a liquid inlet, and the other end is a liquid outlet. The liquid inlet can be connected to a second liquid pump, which pumps coolant into the cooling pipe 40 to cool the second vacuum pipe 32, ensuring that the temperature of the vacuum chamber is kept below a preset temperature. For example, by cooling the second vacuum pipe 32 with coolant, the temperature of the vacuum chamber is kept below 50 degrees Celsius.

[0092] In the embodiments of this disclosure, the cooling pipe 40 is disposed on the outer wall surface of the second vacuum pipe 32. By introducing coolant into the cooling pipe 40 to cool the second vacuum pipe 32, it is beneficial to improve the service life of the second vacuum pipe 32 and at the same time ensure that the temperature of the vacuum chamber is kept below the preset temperature.

[0093] In an optional embodiment, the outer wall of the second vacuum pipe 32 is provided with a groove, and the cooling pipe 40 is embedded in the groove.

[0094] The width and depth of the groove are set according to actual needs. For example, the width of the groove is 2~10 mm and the depth of the groove is 2~10 mm. The second vacuum channel 32 has two opposite ends, defined as the first end and the second end of the second vacuum channel 32, respectively. The first end is close to the first vacuum channel 31, and the second end is close to the neutron target substrate 10.

[0095] In some embodiments, the groove is arranged in a reciprocating, meandering pattern, and the first and last ends of the groove can be located at the same end of the second vacuum pipe 32. For example, both the first and last ends of the groove are located at the first end of the second vacuum pipe 32. The liquid inlet and liquid outlet of the cooling pipe 40 are both located at the first end, with the liquid inlet connected to the liquid inlet pipe and the liquid outlet connected to the liquid outlet pipe, which facilitates a reasonable layout of the pipes. The first and last ends of the groove can both be located at the second end of the second vacuum pipe 32. Alternatively, the first end of the groove can be located at the first end of the second vacuum pipe 32, and the last end of the groove can be located at the second end of the second vacuum pipe 32.

[0096] The diameter of the cooling pipe 40 is adapted to the groove. The cooling pipe 40 is embedded in the groove along the groove's trajectory. The pipe wall of the cooling pipe 40 is in full contact with the groove wall, which helps to accelerate heat transfer and thus improves the cooling speed of the second vacuum pipe 32.

[0097] It is understandable that the cooling pipe 40 can be composed of a straight section, an arc section and a vertical section perpendicular to the second vacuum pipe 32. The length of the straight section can be approximately the same as the length of the second pipe body 321. The arc section is used to achieve a smooth transition between two adjacent straight sections. The vertical section is convenient for connection with the liquid inlet pipe or liquid outlet pipe.

[0098] Multiple grooves are arranged at intervals along the outer wall of the second vacuum pipe 32, and multiple cooling pipes 40 are set one-to-one with the multiple grooves.

[0099] In some embodiments, the second pipe body 321 can be a hollow square body with four adjacent outer wall surfaces. A groove can be provided on each outer wall surface, and the four cooling pipes 40 are respectively embedded in the four grooves. Each cooling pipe 40 cools each outer wall surface individually, which helps to further improve the cooling rate of the second vacuum pipe 32.

[0100] In some embodiments, the second pipe body 321 can be a hollow cylindrical body, and multiple grooves can be spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the second pipe body 321. For example, two grooves are spaced apart on the outer wall surface of the second pipe body 321, and two cooling pipes 40 are respectively embedded in the two grooves. Each cooling pipe 40 cools a portion of the second pipe body 321 individually, which helps to further improve the cooling rate of the second vacuum pipe 32.

[0101] In the embodiments of this disclosure, the cooling pipe 40 is embedded in the groove on the outer wall of the second vacuum pipe 32, and the pipe wall of the cooling pipe 40 is in full contact with the groove wall, which is beneficial to improving the cooling speed of the second vacuum pipe 32. The number of grooves is set according to actual needs, and multiple cooling pipes 40 are embedded in multiple grooves respectively. Each cooling pipe 40 cools a part of the second pipe body 321 separately, which is beneficial to further improve the cooling speed of the second vacuum pipe 32.

[0102] like Figure 8 and Figure 9 As shown, in an optional embodiment, one of the second vacuum conduit 32 and the neutron target substrate 10 is provided with a second sealing groove 3232. The neutron target module also includes a second sealing member, which is embedded in the second sealing groove 3232 and sandwiched between the opposing surfaces of the second vacuum conduit 32 and the neutron target substrate 10. One of the first vacuum conduit 31 and the second vacuum conduit 32 is provided with a third sealing groove 3131. The neutron target module also includes a third sealing member, which is embedded in the third sealing groove 3131 and sandwiched between the opposing surfaces of the first vacuum conduit 31 and the second vacuum conduit 32.

[0103] In some embodiments, the second vacuum conduit 32 includes a second conduit body 321 and a third flange 322 and a fourth flange 323 connected to opposite ends of the second conduit body 321. Optionally, as Figure 8 As shown, the fourth flange 323 has a second sealing groove 3232 on the side facing the neutron target substrate 10, and the second sealing element includes a sealing ring, which is embedded in the second sealing groove 3232. The sealing ring can be a fluororubber sealing ring. Optionally, the neutron target substrate 10 has a second sealing groove 3232 on the side facing the fourth flange 323, and the sealing ring is embedded in the second sealing groove 3232.

[0104] After the fourth flange 323 and the lithium target substrate are connected by the second fastener 62, the second seal is sandwiched between the opposite surfaces of the fourth flange 323 and the lithium target substrate to ensure the sealing of the connection between the fourth flange 323 and the lithium target substrate.

[0105] In some embodiments, the first vacuum conduit 31 includes a first conduit body 311 and a first flange 312 and a second flange 313 connected to opposite ends of the first conduit body 311. Optionally, as... Figure 9 As shown, the second flange 313 has a third sealing groove 3131 on the side facing the third flange 322, and the third sealing element includes a sealing ring, which is embedded in the third sealing groove 3131. The sealing ring can be a fluororubber sealing ring. Optionally, the third flange 322 has a third sealing groove 3131 on the side facing the second flange 313, and the sealing ring is embedded in the third sealing groove 3131.

[0106] After the second flange 313 and the third flange 322 are connected by the third fastener 63, the third sealing element is clamped between the opposite faces of the second flange 313 and the third flange 322 to ensure the sealing of the connection between the second flange 313 and the third flange 322.

[0107] If the vacuum pipe connection is not well sealed, outside air will enter the vacuum chamber through the gaps in the connection, which will affect the transmission of the proton beam. At the same time, the lithium layer will be oxidized, affecting the treatment effect.

[0108] In the embodiments of this disclosure, a second sealing element is sandwiched between the opposing surfaces of the fourth flange 323 and the neutron target substrate 10, and a third sealing element is sandwiched between the opposing surfaces of the second flange 313 and the third flange 322. The sealing at the connection between the three is ensured by the second and third sealing elements, thereby ensuring the vacuum level in the vacuum chamber.

[0109] like Figure 1 As shown, in an optional embodiment, the neutron target module further includes a gate valve 50, which is connected to the end of the container 30 away from the neutron target substrate 10.

[0110] The slide gate valve 50 can be a manual, electric, or pneumatic slide gate valve. One end of the slide gate valve 50 is connected to the proton beam conduit, and the other end is connected to the first vacuum conduit 31. The proton beam conduit is connected to an accelerator, which emits a proton beam that enters the vacuum chamber through the proton beam conduit. The slide gate valve 50 includes a valve body and a valve plate, which can be in an open or closed state. In the open state, the proton beam can enter the vacuum chamber. In the closed state, the vacuum chamber is isolated from the accelerator end.

[0111] In some embodiments, the slide gate valve 50 has a fifth flange on the side facing the first vacuum pipe 31, and the fifth flange and the first flange 312 are connected by a fourth fastener 64. The fourth fastener 64 includes bolts and nuts.

[0112] In some embodiments, the neutron target module further includes a fourth sealing element. Optionally, the fifth flange has a fourth sealing groove on the side facing the first flange 312, and the fourth sealing element includes a sealing ring embedded in the fourth sealing groove. The sealing ring can be an oxygen-free copper sealing ring. Optionally, the first flange 312 has a fourth sealing groove on the side facing the fifth flange, and the sealing ring is embedded in the fourth sealing groove. After the first flange 312 and the fifth flange are connected by the fourth fastener 64, the fourth sealing element is sandwiched between the opposing surfaces of the first flange 312 and the fifth flange, ensuring the sealing performance at the connection between the first flange 312 and the fifth flange, thereby ensuring the vacuum level in the vacuum chamber.

[0113] During the assembly of the neutron target module, to protect the neutron target substrate 10, assembly is carried out in a glove box. First, the sealed neutron target substrate 10, vacuum pipes, and gate valve 50 are placed inside the glove box, which is then filled with argon gas. After the glove box is filled with argon gas, the sealed neutron target substrate 10 is opened inside the glove box, and then the neutron target substrate 10, vacuum pipes, and gate valve 50 are assembled. After assembly, a vacuum leak test is performed on the vacuum pipes placed inside the glove box. The leak tester is connected to a vacuum connector at the rear of the glove box, and the leak tester is connected to the first vacuum pipe 31, which is connected to a solenoid valve. Power is then turned on to perform the vacuum leak test.

[0114] Understandably, the assembly environment of the neutron target module should ensure that the lithium layer is not oxidized. Alternatively, the neutron target module can be assembled in a glove box environment or a dry room filled with dry air.

[0115] In the embodiments of this disclosure, the neutron target substrate 10 is isolated from the accelerator end by means of a gate valve 50. During installation or commissioning, the valve plate is in a closed state, which helps to reduce the steps of installation and commissioning and improves the convenience of installation and commissioning.

[0116] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this disclosure, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions made within the spirit and principles of this disclosure should be covered within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A neutron target module for boron neutron capture therapy, characterized in that, include: A neutron target substrate includes a substrate and a target layer disposed on one side of the substrate; A container, connected to a first side of the neutron target substrate, the container having a vacuum cavity, the target layer opposite the vacuum cavity; and A water-cooled plate is connected to the second side of the neutron target substrate. The water-cooled plate is detachably connected to the neutron target substrate. The water-cooled plate has an inlet flow channel and an outlet flow channel. The water-cooled plate is used to cool the neutron target substrate.

2. The neutron target module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water-cooled plate is provided with a first connection hole, and a plurality of the first connection holes are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the water-cooled plate; The neutron target substrate is provided with a second connection hole, and a plurality of the second connection holes are spaced apart along the circumferential direction of the neutron target substrate; The first connecting hole and the second connecting hole are connected by a first fastener.

3. The neutron target module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water-cooled plate has a limiting groove on the side facing the neutron target substrate, and the two opposite end faces of the neutron target substrate are in contact with the two opposite groove wall surfaces of the limiting groove.

4. The neutron target module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The neutron target substrate has a receiving groove on the side facing the water-cooled plate, and a plurality of partitions are arranged at intervals in the receiving groove, forming a microchannel. The inlet channel, the microchannel, and the outlet channel are interconnected.

5. The neutron target module according to claim 4, characterized in that, The neutron target substrate has a first sealing groove on the side facing the water-cooled plate, and the first sealing groove is located on the outside of the microchannel. The neutron target module further includes a first sealing element, which is embedded in the first sealing groove and sandwiched between the opposing surfaces of the neutron target substrate and the water-cooled plate.

6. The neutron target module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The container includes: A first vacuum conduit, the first vacuum conduit comprising stainless steel components; and The second vacuum pipe has one end connected to the first vacuum pipe and the other end connected to the neutron target substrate. The second vacuum pipe includes an aluminum alloy component.

7. The neutron target module according to claim 6, characterized in that, The neutron target module also includes a cooling pipe, which is disposed on the outer wall of the second vacuum pipe and is used to cool the second vacuum pipe.

8. The neutron target module according to claim 7, characterized in that, The outer wall of the second vacuum pipe is provided with a groove, and the cooling pipe is embedded in the groove; Multiple grooves are arranged at intervals along the outer wall of the second vacuum pipe, and multiple cooling pipes are arranged in a one-to-one correspondence with multiple grooves.

9. The neutron target module according to claim 6, characterized in that, One of the second vacuum pipe and the neutron target substrate is provided with a second sealing groove; The neutron target module further includes a second sealing element, which is embedded in the second sealing groove and sandwiched between the opposing surfaces of the second vacuum pipe and the neutron target substrate; and / or One of the first vacuum pipe and the second vacuum pipe is provided with a third sealing groove; The neutron target module also includes a third sealing element, which is embedded in the third sealing groove and sandwiched between the opposite surfaces of the first vacuum pipe and the second vacuum pipe.

10. The neutron target module according to claim 1, characterized in that, The neutron target module also includes a gate valve, which is connected to the end of the container away from the neutron target substrate.

Images