Monte Carlo calculation of the photon beam quality correction factor kQ,Q0 for ionization chambers of very small volume: Use of variance reduction techniques driven with an ant colony algorithm

• DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2024.112110
• Publication Date: 2024-08-06T17:32:43Z
• Authors: A.M. Garví; L.I. Zamora; M. Anguiano; A.M. Lallena; S. García-Pareja
• Keywords: Variance reduction

: To evaluate the effectiveness of an ant colony algorithm in implementing variance reduction techniques Monte Carlo computation photon beam quality correction factor kQ,Q0 for ionization chambers characterized with very small active volumes. The code PENELOPE has been utilized to compute Semiflex 3D 31021 chamber, which volume 0.071cm3. Various clinical beams generated nominal potentials from 4 25MV have considered, a 60Co serving as reference. calculation involved determining absorbed dose both water and sensitive chamber. This information was used derive fc,Q factors fc,Q0 beam, whose ratio provides factors. initially validated by comparing analog simulations where no are applied. results demonstrated efficiency improvement ranging 7 44. By incorporating along techniques, determination TPR1020 values various studied achieved. calculated agree previously published values. Two distinct protocols outlined TRS-398 taken into account obtained these were compared explore any differences between them. facilitates automatic application such splitting Russian roulette, without need delve geometric intricacies simulation. automated approach increased efficiency, enabling be conducted within reasonable times while maintaining uncertainties at levels that ensure reliability.