Monte Carlo and numerical study of pumping $K_{\alpha}$ resonance fluorescence in high-Z nanovehicles for enhancing radiation therapy
POSTER
Abstract
Using the Monte Carlo code GEANT4 developed by CERN as well as a custom code called PHOTX, we have studied fluorescence and Auger electrons in a variety of nanoparticles as a method to improve tumor irradiation. We used GEANT4 to simulate photons from quasi-monochromatic, monochromatic, and traditional broadband medical X-ray sources interacting with heavy element nanoparticles designed to enhance X-ray absorption [1]. Nanoparticles were composed of gold, platinum, or gadolinium, were varied in size from 2-20 nm, and were varied in shape including rods, spheres, and cubes. We also have made developments to the code PHOTX to better implement Rabi floppings in order to determine intensities needed to pump $K_{\alpha}$ resonance fluorescence in high-Z nanovehicles [2].\newline [1] M. S. Westphal et al., Phys. Med. Biol, 62: 6361-6378, 2017.\newline [2] S. N. Nahar and A. K. Pradhan, JQSRT, 155: 32-48, 2015.