The RPI LINAC: Applied Radiation Technologies

Dr. Dominik Fritz

Abstract:

Since 1961, the Gaerttner Electron Linear Accelerator Center (LINAC) at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has provided cutting-edge nuclear data to support the safe design and operation of naval and commercial nuclear reactors. Accurate nuclear data is critical to the successful design of various nuclear systems, and its associated uncertainty can often dominate the overall uncertainty of a simulation. However, the intense, unique source of electron, photon and neutron radiation found at the RPI LINAC is not restricted to nuclear data application. Ranging from super-voltage CT imaging to radioisotope production to radiation damage and high heat-flux generation, the RPI LINAC provides unique research capability. Currently underway is a major refurbishment and upgrade of the RPI LINAC. This talk will focus on past, present and future applications of high-power electron accelerators relevant to the development of novel applied radiation technologies.

Bio:

Dr. Dominik Fritz returned to RPI as an assistant professor in the Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Nuclear Engineering in Fall 2024. His current research efforts focus on nuclear data, radioisotope production and radiation effects on both biological and additively manufactured materials at the RPI LINAC. In 2025, Dr. Fritz developed the production of high-purity Pu-236 at the RPI LINAC, becoming the only global supplier. Previously, Dr. Fritz specialized in high heat-flux target and hot cell designs for 125 kW electron rhodotron accelerator facilities. These facilities focused on the creation of a high intensity photon beam to produce medical radioisotopes, such as Ac-225, and subsequent chemical purification. Prior to his experience in the nuclear medicine industry, Dr. Fritz designed and commissioned a cold neutron moderator system for thermal/sub-thermal total neutron cross section measurements of various moderator materials at the RPI LINAC.