Electron-beam accelerator with conversion to X-rays: Optimal radiation type according to application

Recently, electron-beam accelerators and gamma-ray sources, usually 60-Co, are the mostly used devices for radiation processing (Gamma and Electron Beam Irradiation Facilities, 2008). The electron-beam accelerators with conversion of electrons to X-rays merge the main advantages of both types of facilities, the high penetration ability of the photons from the gamma sources and the high power of the electron-beam devices. The University Centre of Electron Accelerators in Trencin is a research-oriented facility equipped by such a type of accelerator. The accelerated electrons can be converted to X-rays with continuous spectrum of energies up to 6.2 MeV via a tungsten target. The application possibilities of the device are wide thanks to this dual mode of operation (electron beam or X-ray beam) and wide range of applicable doses and also dose-rates. This paper deals with specification of material characteristics of irradiated targets in order to determine the suitable type of radiation to be used. The Monte Carlo based simulation codes were employed to calculate the behaviour of electrons and X-rays in matter according to its density and chemical composition. The wooden cultural heritage artefacts are presented as an example of utilizing both types of radiation (electron beam and X-rays) for processing depending on the artefacts’ dimensions. •First report on disinfection of wooden artefact from woodworms by electron beam.•The maximal thicknesses of materials for electron-beam treatment simulated.•The dose depth distribution of 5 MeV electrons in artefact wood verified.•Electron-beam to X-ray conversion efficiency determined.•X-ray and electron-beam mode of electron accelerator utilized for disinfection.