MicroNOVA - A novel compact particle generator for medical applications
Lead Research Organisation:
University of Bristol
Department Name: Interface Analysis Centre
Abstract
The Micro-NOVA project will construct and validate a compact neutron source that will enable cheap, safe and reliable production of high-energy neutrons at a high flux.
As part of this project, the Micro-NOVA system will be developed and validated for producing sufficient neutrons to viably make medical radioisotopes for the NHS and enable testing of breeder blanket materials for making tritium fuel in future fusion power stations.
The success of the project will be followed by commercialisation of the Micro-NOVA for medical and energy research applications. Our vision is to have a Micro-NOVA system producing valuable radioisotopes for medical treatments in all of the 240 NHS hospitals using this treatment technology. Beyond this domestic ambition, we would aim to export this technology to healthcare systems across the globe.
As part of this project, the Micro-NOVA system will be developed and validated for producing sufficient neutrons to viably make medical radioisotopes for the NHS and enable testing of breeder blanket materials for making tritium fuel in future fusion power stations.
The success of the project will be followed by commercialisation of the Micro-NOVA for medical and energy research applications. Our vision is to have a Micro-NOVA system producing valuable radioisotopes for medical treatments in all of the 240 NHS hospitals using this treatment technology. Beyond this domestic ambition, we would aim to export this technology to healthcare systems across the globe.
Publications
Ahmed R
(2023)
Assessment of Five Concrete Types as Candidate Shielding Materials for a Compact Radiation Source Based on the IECF.
in Materials (Basel, Switzerland)
Bakr M
(2023)
Influence of electrodes' geometrical properties on the neutron production rate of a discharge fusion neutron source
in Physics of Plasmas
Verbelen Y
(2023)
Safety Analysis for Modular IEC Fusor Particle Accelerators
| Description | Impact acceleration funding |
| Amount | £30,000 (GBP) |
| Funding ID | TRITON |
| Organisation | University of Bristol |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 08/2022 |
| End | 01/2023 |
| Description | Professorial Research Fellowships Scheme |
| Amount | £625,000 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Royal Academy of Engineering |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 03/2021 |
| End | 02/2026 |
| Description | William Penney Fellowship |
| Amount | £120,000 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Atomic Weapons Establishment |
| Sector | Private |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 05/2022 |
| End | 05/2025 |