• International Conference on Utilization of Accelerators
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Utilization of Accelerators

Proceedings of an International Conference
Dubrovnik, 5–9 June 2005
IAEA-CN-115

Through its programs on utilization of accelerators, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) contributes to new developments, training, promotion and transfer of technology. The IAEA accelerator symposium thus forms an important forum for information exchange on accelerator technology and applications among scientists from developing and developed countries. This was the second symposium in the series, the first having been held in Săo Paulo, Brazil, in 2001.

Particle accelerators, originally developed for basic research in nuclear physics, have matured into versatile tools for applications in other branches of science, as well as in industry and medicine. In the electronics industry, ion accelerators are utilized for implanting atoms into the surface layer of materials. High-energy (GeV) proton accelerators are used in Accelerator Driven Systems (ADS) for radioactive waste treatment in order to reduce the amount of long-lived radioactive isotopes by transmutation. In the medical field, medium energy cyclotrons are used to produce isotopes for diagnostic, as well as therapeutic applications. Recently, there has been an increased interest in heavy ion accelerators for treatment of deep lying tumours. Heavy ions such as Carbon deposit most of their energy near the end of their path minimizing the radiation dose to surface tissue and vital organs that must be crossed in order to reach the target zone. Dedicated facilities for heavy ion therapy are under construction in several countries. Small electrostatic neutron generators are used for safety and security applications for the detection of illicit materials.

This five-day symposium was organized by the IAEA. It was attended by 75 delegates from 30 countries. Overall, 61 papers, including 11 invited papers were presented. The main objectives of the symposium were to bring together scientists to exchange information and review the status of current accelerator developments and applications, to discuss new trends and technologies, and to promote research collaborations between laboratories in IAEA Member States.

The symposium was hosted by the Government of Croatia through the Ruđer Bošković Institute. Local organization was provided by Mr. Milko Jaksič of the Ruđer Bošković Institute, Zagreb, Croatia. The IAEA officer responsible for the symposium was Mr. Ulf Rosengard of the Division of Physical and Chemical Sciences.