Moving solid metallic targets for pion production in the Muon Collider/Neutrino Factory project

The production of large fluxes of pions and muons using high-energy, high-intensity proton pulses impinging on solid or liquid targets presents unique problems which have not yet been entirely solved. We investigate the possibilities of using solid targets by choosing a metal of either extremely low thermal expansion coefficient or exceptionally high mechanical strength. Candidates are respectively Super-Invar and Vascomax 350 or Inconel 718. Moving targets in the form of chains or cables would be required for cooling purposes. These materials seem easily capable of surviving the beam pulses required for the largest beam power contemplated. Questions regarding radiation damage effects are being investigated.