Gamma and Neutron Shielding Parameters of Polyester-based composites reinforced with boron and tin nanopowders. (November 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Oğul, H.; Polat, H.; Akman, F.; Kaçal, M.R.; Dilsiz, K.; Bulut, F.; Agar, O.
• Is Part Of: Radiation physics and chemistry. Volume 201(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-11
• Subjects: Boron nanopowder -- Tin nanopowder -- Polymer composite -- Gamma shielding -- Neutron shielding; Radiation chemistry -- Periodicals; Radiometry -- Periodicals; Radiation -- Periodicals; Chimie sous rayonnement -- Périodiques; 539.2
• DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2022.110474
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0969-806X

Abstract

Abstract: The usage of composites as the shielding materials are highly recommended since they could be used in order to attenuate the undesired radiation with unique properties and advantages in the areas where the radiation is prevalent. In this context, not only are their radiation shielding properties important but also their flexibility, durability and low cost. Due to the mentioned superior characteristics, the polyester based composites are among the most preferred materials. With the aim of creating unique and novel radiation shielding materials, this study investigates gamma and neutron shielding capabilities of the polyester composites reinforced with Boron and Tin nanopowders at different proportions (0–50%, 10–40%, 20–30%, 30-20% and 40-10%, 50-0%). The gamma shielding abilities of the prepared polyester composite materials were evaluated using an HPGe detector system, WinXCOM computer program and different simulation tools (FLUKA and GEANT4) at the energies varying from 59.5 to 1332.5 keV. The experimental, theoretical and simulation results showed remarkable agreement between each other, and the addition of Sn enhances the gamma attenuation performance of the chosen polyester composite materials. In addition to gamma analysis results, neutron shielding properties of the proposed composites are further determined. On this purpose, the transmitted neutron numbers through the samples (as functions of neutron energy and the sample thickness) and effective neutron removal cross sections were evaluated. The neutron shielding performance of the samples showed that the prepared composites could be alternative materials to the existing neutron shields in the literature. Highlights: The polyester composites reinforced with boron and tin nanopowders are produced. The gamma attenuation abilities of the prepared composites are evaluated. HPGe detector, WinXCOM program and MC simulations are used for gamma analysis. Theoretical and simulation methods are used for the neutron shielding tests. The proposed composites show excellent gamma and neutron shielding performance.