On the definition of the deuterium-tritium ion beam parameters for the SORGENTINA-RF fusion neutron source

The SORGENTINA-RF project aims to develop a 14 MeV fusion neutron source to produce medical radioisotopes with special focus on 99Mo. The facility is based on a positive ion source with an acceleration stage to produce a deuterium (D+) and tritium (T+) ion beam that, impacting on a titanium-coated rotating target, allows fusion reactions to take place. Maximizing the neutron production rate is one of the main issues to be addressed in the project and the optimization of some key parameters of the ion beam is of paramount importance in this regard. In this study, a methodology is discussed to reach a definition of the beam characteristics for an effective and sustainable operation of the plant. The most convenient layout that has been found out is based on a single ion source fed by a deuterium and tritium gas mixture. Eventually, a series of considerations about the operation of the ion source and fuel cycle have been drawn.