Electron Model Non-Scaling Fixed Field Alternating Gradient Accelerator

The market for high-average-power proton accelerators is growing rapidly, triggered by approaching commercial applications and proposed new experiments at research facilities. Yet, progress is often limited by budgetary constraints, as it is expensive to extend state-of-the-art proton accelerators to higher energies or high average powers. Non-scaling Fixed Field Alternating Gradient (FFAG) accelerators have the potential to be less expensive and deliver higher power output, possibly with continuous wave (CW) operation. Therefore, this project will design an electron model of a non-scaling FFAG proton driver and, in Phase II, build and test key elements of the electron model lattice, which will demonstrate the design principles of the larger machine. Phase I will: identify the parameters for an electron model of a 1.5 GeV FFAG accelerator; perform simulations to find an optimal magnetic field configuration and profile; determine the feasibility of the harmonic-number-jump CW acceleration technique; generate a conceptual design of the RF cavity system, based upon superposition of axisymmetric and dipole mode accelerating cavities; and develop a concept design and cost estimate of the electron model. Commercial Applications And Other Benefits as described by the Applicant: A non-scaling FFAG proton accelerator would have a wide range of potential applications, including: providing high fluxes of primary particles for muon production for a muon collider and/or neutrino factory; spallation neutron production; transmutation of nuclear waste; and accelerator-driven sub-critical reactors (i.e. thorium cycle fission). In addition, medical applications of non-scaling FFAG acceleration include the production of protons, heavy ions, and neutrons (including boron-neutron capture therapy) for cancer treatment.