The machine is a synchrotron that produces an X-ray beam of 70 million volts. With it, University of California scientists will do some pioneering research on the possibility that ultra-high energy X-rays have some advantages in treating deep-seated cancer.
The synchrotron, purchased with funds from the Atomic Energy Commission, was recently delivered. It was designed and constructed at Schenectady, N. Y., by scientists and engineers of the General Electric Company's Research Laboratory and General Engineering Laboratory. It has operated successfully in tests at Schenectady.
The new cancer-fighting weapon is being reassembled in a two-story building constructed especially to house it and its associated laboratory. Total cost of the machine and the building, all financed by AEC funds, is about half a million dollars.
Dr. Robert S. Stone, professor of radiology and one of the pioneers in the application of nuclear physics in medicine, is director of the pro~ect.
Dr. Gall Adams, physicist in charge of the operation of the machine, came to the School of Medicine from the University of Illinois, where he played an important role in the development of the 20 million-electron-volt betatron, presently the most powerful X-ray weapon used in cancer treatment.
Dr. Adams explained that the new synchrotron will not be used in treatment of human patients for some time to come. The early work will be devoted to determining the effect of the ultra-high-energy X-rays on animals.
Dr. Adams explained that work with the 20 million-volt betatron indicates it is possible to put a higher dose of radiation in deep-seated tumors than with lower voltage machines. At 70 million volts this effect may be even more pronounced. The machine will determine whether this is the case.
The synchrotron will have considerable flexibility, since it can be adjusted between 20 and 70 million volts.
When assembled, the 16-ton machine will be mounted on huge trunnions, somewhat like an ordinary X-ray machine. By means of powerful auxiliary machinery, the magnet can be moved to adjust precisely the X-ray beam.
When in operation, the beam will be directed toward the side of the building which rests against Mr. Sutro. Since the beam is very sharp and penetrating, there is little danger from radiation in any other direction. However, the 3-ft. thick concrete walls of the synchrotron room provide extra precautionary protection.
The synchrotron operator and doctors performing treatment or experiments will be able to observe subjects through a glass tank filled with water. The water will provide extra protection to the observers.
In addition to the synchrotron, the new building will house necessary physical and chemical laboratories for studying the basic effects of the radiations, animal quarters for investigating the biological effects of the radiations, and rooms for examining patients.