High-density concrete: Exploring Ferro boron effects in neutron and gamma radiation shielding

Abstract

Abstract Aimed to reduce neutron and gamma radiation, this study examined the shielding capability of high-density concretes mixed with Ferro boron in different proportions (25%, 50%, and 75%) replacing granite aggregate, denoted as 25FB, 50FB, and 75FB, respectively, with control specimen designated as CC. The concretes performance was evaluated in terms of mechanical and radiation shielding properties. Cement content, water-cement ratio, and maximum nominal size of aggregates were kept as constant. In general, workability and density reduced and enhanced, respectively, with Ferro boron increment. The increment in concrete strength was achieved with 25FB and 50FB, while 75FB mix experienced a strength reduction due to the segregation problem. Ferro boron concrete showed better radiation shielding, where 25FB, 50FB, and 75FB shielded transmission of neutron and gamma 2, 2.57, and 3.27 times as well as 1.35, 1.72, and 2.92 times, respectively, better than CC. Hence, these findings conclusively show that the increase in the Ferro boron content has progressively increased the shielding properties of the concrete, with notable caution against high inclusion of Ferro boron due to a counter-productive outcome in strength.