Researchers at Queen’s University Belfast have unveiled a pioneering method to generate high-quality proton beams using high-intensity lasers, a breakthrough with the potential to transform cancer treatment and other industries.
Proton beams, currently used in a variety of sectors such as satellite testing, nuclear reactor component analysis, and medical imaging, have also proven effective in cancer treatment. Proton beam radiotherapy offers more precise targeting of cancerous tissue compared to traditional X-ray radiotherapy, minimising damage to surrounding healthy cells and vital organs.
However, current proton beam generation relies on large, expensive cyclotrons – machines that are scarce and not widely available, especially for cancer…