University of Birmingham selects Bariwall® for radiation shielding in high flux accelerator bunker

Project overview

University of Birmingham is internationally recognised for its leadership in nuclear materials science, medical physics, and advanced accelerator research. As part of a major investment in next generation neutron technologies, the university supported the installation of the nuBeam accelerator within a purpose built high flux accelerator bunker.

The project required a highly effective, lead free radiation shielding solution capable of attenuating residual radiation while fitting within strict spatial and operational constraints. Bariwall® radiation shielding bricks were selected to meet these requirements.

The nuBeam accelerator

The system generates neutrons through the interaction of a high power proton beam with a lithium target. For an accelerator of its type, nuBeam achieves exceptional performance levels, including:

• Beam power of up to 100 kW
• A 2.6 MeV electrostatic proton accelerator
• Proton beam currents exceeding 30 mA

This combination delivers a neutron flux unmatched by comparable compact accelerator systems, necessitating robust and carefully engineered radiation shielding throughout the facility.

Use of Bariwall® in radiation shielding doors

Bariwall® radiation shielding bricks were specified for use within the hollow metal doors of the accelerator bunker. Their role was to attenuate residual radiation and provide uniform shielding across all directions without compromising the structural design of the doors.

Bariwall® bricks are manufactured from high density naturally occurring minerals and offer a lead free shielding solution with key performance properties, including:

• High X ray and gamma radiation absorbance
• Low hardness, allowing ease of handling and installation
• Chemical inertness, ensuring long term stability and safety

When installed within the door cavities, the Bariwall® bricks form a continuous radiation barrier, effectively reducing radiation leakage while maintaining the mechanical functionality of the access systems.

Compact design and installation advantages

The geometry, size, and density of Bariwall® bricks make them particularly well suited for confined and complex shielding applications. In the nuBeam facility, this allowed shielding to be integrated into existing door structures without excessive increases in thickness or weight.

By optimising spatial efficiency, Bariwall® bricks supported both radiation protection and the overall architectural and operational layout of the bunker. This flexibility was essential in a facility housing high energy equipment within a compact research environment.

Impact on research and medical applications

The nuBeam facility represents a significant advancement in both materials’ science and medical physics research. It supports studies into radiation damage in materials relevant to both fission and fusion reactor technologies, enabling the development and testing of new materials and instrumentation.

In medical research, the facility plays a key role in advancing boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT), a non-invasive cancer treatment showing promising clinical outcomes.

During BNCT, patients are administered a boron 10 containing compound that preferentially accumulates in tumour cells. When exposed to a neutron beam, the boron captures neutrons and undergoes nuclear reactions that release high energy alpha particles. These particles deliver highly localised cell destruction within the tumour, minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Recent advances in accelerator technology have enabled the deployment of neutron sources within hospital and clinical environments, positioning BNCT as an emerging treatment modality for cancers that are difficult to treat using conventional radiotherapy.

Conclusion

The successful integration of Bariwall® radiation shielding bricks within the nuBeam accelerator bunker demonstrates their suitability for high performance, space constrained radiation protection applications. Their lead free composition, high density, and ease of installation make them an effective solution for advanced research and medical facilities.

By supporting cutting edge nuclear and medical research at the University of Birmingham, Bariwall® contributes to safer accelerator operation and the advancement of technologies with significant scientific and societal impact.

To learn more about Bariwall® radiation shielding solutions or to discuss a specific project requirement, contact an RBH specialist market manager for expert guidance.