Repository of DUTH

Radiation protection study in a linear accelerator (Bachelor thesis)

Βλάχου, Λαμπρινή/ Vlachou, Labrini

Radiation therapy is one of the main treatments used in medicine to fight cancer and provide relief for patients suffering from this disease. The purpose of this paper is to analyze radiation protection using a linear accelerator that produces beams of photons and electrons. Initially, an introduction is provided on the structure of the atom and ionizing radiation, followed by an analysis of the mechanisms through which interactions between radiation and matter occur. The effects of ionizing radiation on cells and biological material are described, as well as the dosimetry involved. In the second chapter, the setup of the linear accelerator is presented, along with an explanation of its operating principles. A historical overview of the evolution of linear accelerators is also provided. The next chapter analyzes international and national radiation protection systems, including maximum radiation limits, protection guidelines for staff and patients, and the effects of radiation on pregnant individuals and women exposed to radiation. Furthermore, the quality control of linear accelerators and safety systems are described, as well as the necessary equipment for ensuring the safety of specialized personnel. In the fourth and final chapter, the arrangement of the room housing the linear accelerator is described, along with other surrounding spaces such as staff offices and waiting areas for patients and their companions. The dimensions and shielding requirements of these spaces, where ionizing radiation is used, are discussed. Shielding is a crucial factor in protecting both patients and staff from radiation exposure. Finally, we conducted a case study in which we placed a high-energy linear accelerator in a treatment room and performed the necessary calculations for its shielding