Multi-Objective Optimization Shielding Design for a Transportable Accelerator-Driven Neutron Source

Abstract

A transportable accelerator-driven neutron source (TANS), utilizing the 7Li(p, n)7Be reaction with 2.5 MeV protons, is under development at Xi’an Jiaotong University (X-TANS). To meet the requirements for a compact, lightweight, and safe shielding design for X-TANS, we employed a multi-objective shielding design method, NSGA-MC, which integrates the NSGA-II with MCNP calculations, developed in our previous study. This method was applied to design a compact shielding structure for the target station, measuring 98 cm × 98 cm × 98 cm and 3.0 tons. Additionally, a shielding cabin was meticulously designed to further attenuate radiation escaping from the target station while preserving heat dissipation, considering the complex working conditions on site. Based on Monte Carlo simulations, the optimized shielding design ensures that the dose rate on the surface of the shielding cabin is below 0.5 μSv/h.

Keywords: TANS, Multi-layer shielding structure, Multi-objective optimization, NSGA-MC