Research

We conduct accelerator and beam-physics research to generate and accelerate high-quality, highly stable ion beams that enable high-resolution studies of the structure and reactions of particles and nuclei. We also take on the challenge of developing next-generation accelerators and irradiation systems aimed at innovative cancer therapy and diagnosis through collaboration across medicine and physics.

Beam Dynamics

Using 3D electromagnetic simulations and a particle-in-cell simulation, we study particle orbits, emittance growth, and phase stability in realistic fields to guide design and operation.

HIPIS: High Intensity Polarized Ion Source

RCNP operates HIPIS to deliver high-intensity polarized proton and deuteron beams. We are upgrading HIPIS to further increase beam current and polarization for advanced nuclear physics experiments.

Acceleration electrodes of the high-intensity polarized ion source (HIPIS)

Fig. Acceleration electrodes of HIPIS.

LaPRIS: Laser Plasma RF Ion Source

We are developing a new ion source: LaPRIS. High-quality beam delivery is essential for the high-resolution experiments. By combining laser and RF techniques, LaPRIS aims to produce beam quality that is difficult to realize with existing ion sources.

High-Temperature Superconducting ECR Ion Source

We are developing a next-generation ECR (Electron Cyclotron Resonance) ion source that uses high-temperature superconducting (HTS) coils. By adopting HTS (REBCO) tapes, we expect a significant increase in achievable magnetic field and a reduction in power consumption compared with copper coils. The new ECR ion source will serve as a high-quality beam provider not only for nuclear-physics experiments but also for applications such as medical RI production and applied research.

Machine-Learning–Assisted Accelerator Control

While accelerator operation is based on theory, many machine settings are intricately coupled; final tuning has relied on expert trial-and-error. We are studying machine-learning approaches to automate and accelerate this optimization. By training on operation logs and beam diagnostics, we infer parameter sets that maximize figures of merit (e.g., beam current, emittance), shortening tuning time and improving operational stability.

CARA: Cyclotron Autoresonance Acceleration for Protons

Building on the electron-acceleration concept of Cyclotron Autoresonance Acceleration (CARA) proposed by Hafizi et al. (Phys. Rev. E 50, 3077, 1994), RCNP investigates its extension to proton acceleration.