acceleratortarget

An accelerator target is a material assembly positioned in the path of a charged particle beam within a particle accelerator. Its primary role is to absorb the beam energy and provide a physical interaction point where the beam produces secondary particles, radiation, or radioisotopes. Targets are used in fixed-target experiments, neutron production, meson and neutrino beamlines, and in the production of medical isotopes.

Targets can be solid, liquid, or gaseous. Solid targets include materials such as graphite, tungsten, tantalum, and uranium. Liquid targets often use mercury in spallation sources, while gas targets may employ hydrogen or other light gases. The target geometry ranges from thin foils to thick blocks or flowing streams, with cooling and containment tailored to the specific beam power and chemistry.

Design and operation considerations address heat removal, radiation damage and material activation, chemical compatibility, and remote handling requirements. Strategies to manage heat load include moving or scanned targets, segmented assemblies, and active cooling systems. The surrounding shielding, containment, and remote maintenance tooling reduce radiation exposure and facilitate safe operation.

Applications include fixed-target experiments that study particle production, spallation neutron sources, and beams for muon or neutrino production, as well as the production of medical isotopes in cyclotrons and other accelerators. Facilities employing accelerator targets must manage activation products and radiological waste, with target assemblies designed for remote replacement and periodic maintenance.

See also: Fixed-target experiment, Spallation source, Cyclotron, Neutron source, Medical isotope production.