A Novel Cell Irradiation System Using 90 degrees-Scattering Technique

Abstract

A novel cell irradiation system was developed for use with the HVEE Van de Graaff accelerator at the National Tsing Hua University. A 90 degrees-scattering technique using an Au foil was designed, in which charged particles were directed from horizontal to vertical irradiation. Beam performance was tested with a silicon detector and a CR-39 nuclear track detector. The HeLa cells were irradiated with 2-MeV alpha particles and the formation of giant cells was observed. The result showed that this system provides a convenient way of generating a vertical particle beam and a cell-supporting chamber, thereby allowing a suitable cell growth condition during irradiation. Furthermore, establishment of such a system is more convenient and economical than the alternatives.