Radiation Shielding Capability Research Articles

Microstructure and radiation shielding capabilities of Al-Cu and Al-Mn alloys

In this study, the microstructure and elemental analysis of aluminum-copper alloy type-2024, Al-2024, and aluminum-manganese alloy type-3003, Al-3003, have been investigated by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) detector. Experimental and theoretical radiation shielding studies were performed to assess the radiation shielding capabilities of the studied alloys. Considering the radiation shielding theoretical assessment, some reliable software tools were used, such as Phy-X/PSD, MCNP5, NXCom, and MRCsC. The microstructural observations and results have shown the presence of second phases rich with the main alloying elements in both alloys. Considering Al-2024 alloy, coarse second-phase particles, having a size range of 8–15 μm, were found aligning in lines parallel to the rolling direction, whereas smaller ones, having a size range of 2–8 μm, were found decorated the grain boundaries. Also, dark holes represent the pull-out large particles separated during preparation indicated poor adhesion with the main matrix that could be a result of losing particle coherency with the matrix where the misorientation in-between the atomic planes increase. However, better adhesion of the second-phase particles with the matrix, which were found possessing smaller particle size, have been observed in the Al-3003 alloy indicating good coherency and better manufacturing process for the non-heat-treatable alloy. The second-phase particles in case of Al-2024 alloy were found containing significant content of high-Z elements like Cu with greater volume fraction equals 7.5%. On the other side, Al-3003 alloy has possessed second-phase particles which lack of high-Z elements with only volume fraction equals 3.5%. All the former besides the higher density and content of high-Z elements like copper in Al-2024 alloy in compare to Al-3003 alloy and pure aluminum, led to relatively better radiation shielding capabilities against energetic photons, the highest in the low energy band and decreases with the increase of the photon energy, and slight superiority in the case of fast neutrons with only 3%inc. over pure aluminum. For instance, the radiation protection efficiency (RPE) values dropped from about; 23.2, 21.6, and 20.8% at 0.100 MeV to only 5.7, 5.9, and 5.6% at Eγ = 2 MeV, for; Al-2024, Al-3003, and Al-Pure, respectively."Please check and confirm that the authors and their respective affiliations have been correctly identified and amend if necessary.""confirmed"

Space Environmental Effects on Multifunctional Radiation Shielding Materials

AbstractThe two primary material requirements for a crewed habitat or spacecraft to operate beyond low earth orbit (LEO) include effective radiation shielding against the space radiation and secondary neutron environment and sufficient structural and thermal integrity. In this context it is mandatory to study the effect of long duration space environment on any proposed multifunctional radiation shielding material. In this paper we discuss two radiation shielding composite architectures and their long duration performance in LEO. Samples were flown on NASA's The Materials International Space Station Experiment (MISSE) platform and their structural, optical, and radiation shielding capabilities were characterized pre and post flight. Results showed composite architecture can be key in determining expected damage irrespective of sample placement orientation on the space station. A surface layer with a protective or sacrificial coating can be instrumental in minimizing property degradation even when exposed to orientations with high estimated sun hours and high fluence of atomic oxygen.

Assessing the shielding capability of NiO-infused BPSCCO ceramics against low-energy X-rays

This research examines the improvement of radiation shielding capabilities in Bismuth Strontium Calcium Copper Oxide (BSCCO) superconductors via NiO doping. With the increasing need for advanced shielding materials in high-risk areas, exploring effective and nonhazardous alternatives is becoming increasingly important. The purpose of the study was to investigate the radiation-shielding characteristics of BPSCCO superconducting ceramics and the effects of NiO additives on their shielding properties. Comparisons of linear attenuation coefficient (LAC), mass attenuation coefficient (MAC), half-value layer (HVL), tenth-value layer (TVL), mean free path (MFP), as well as fully simulated values for transmission factor (TF), neutron removal cross section (ΣR), electrical conductivity (Ceff), alpha and proton stopping powers, and radiation protection efficiency (RPE) using NIST XCOM, Phy-X, NIST Pstar and NIST Astar for all ceramic samples. The results indicate that optimal NiO doping notably enhances the radiation shielding capabilities of BSCCO ceramics, highlighting their significant potential for use in the medical, aerospace, and nuclear industries. This research provides a fundamental understanding of the potential of doped superconductor ceramics for radiation protection, promoting further research into these materials and the creation of safer, more efficient shielding solutions.

Experimental and theoretical study on the physico-mechanical characteristics and radiation shielding capability of hardened alumina sludge waste-cement pastes containing MnFe2O4-nanoparticles

This research investigates the impact of incorporating low-cost MnFe2O4 spinel nanoparticles (MF-NPs) at varying concentrations (0.5, 1, and 2 mass%) on the mechanical and physical properties of blended cement pastes. These pastes were produced by replacing different proportions (5, 10, and 15 mass%) of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) with activated alumina sludge waste (AAS), to promote sustainability. Also, the research examined the gamma radiation shielding effectiveness of certain hardened composites against a 137Cs gamma radiation source with an energy of 661.64 keV using a NaI (Tl) detector (Oxford Model) with 3″ × 3″, amplifier and 16 k multi-channel analyzer. The linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) of all the studded samples were calculated theoretically using a Monte Carlo code MCNP-5 code. The gamma radiation shielding properties were analyzed in depth using a Monte Carlo code MCNP-5 simulation model. The theoretical and experimental results for LAC were found to be in complete agreement. Phy-X/PSD software was applied to estimate the mass attenuation coefficient (MAC) for gamma radiation at various energies, as well as the effective atomic number (Zeff), mean free path (MFP), half-value layer (HVL), and tenth-value layer (TVL). The findings demonstrated that the addition of 0.5% MnFe2O4 nanoparticles (MF-NPs) to blended cement pastes exhibited the best physical and mechanical characteristics, as well as the most effective gamma radiation shielding.

Enhancing thermoelectric and radiation shielding performance of novel LaFe0.8Mn0.2Sb12 skutterudites for energy applications

We explore the structural, optoelectronic, and thermoelectric properties of LaFe0.8Mn0.2Sb12 skutterudites using first-principles computations and semi-classical Boltzmann Transport equations. These materials are classified as semiconductors exhibiting band gaps of 0.55 eV and 1.8 eV for spin-up and down polarizations. Valence band maxima (VBM) and conduction band minima (CBM) lie on the gamma points, indicating direct band gaps for both spin channels. The band structure, density of states, and optical characteristics reveal that the material is a semiconductor. The optical reflectivity and complex dielectric function were calculated for a wide range of photon radiation to understand these compounds' optical properties. The transport parameters were investigated using electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, the Seebeck coefficient, the power factor, the heat capacity, and the figure of merit determined using the Boltztrap code. The LaFe0.8Mn0.2Sb12 has a Seebeck coefficient of 5.77×10−6 V/K (Up), whereas the down channel has a 4.2×10−6 V/K. The highest figure of merit is 0.99, and as a result, the theoretical findings provide a robust foundation for upcoming experimental research. In this study, utilize the Phy-X program to evaluate the radiation shielding capabilities of LaFe0.8Mn0.2Sb12, focusing on critical parameters like mass attenuation coefficients (γmac) and half-value layers (γhvl), essential for optimizing protection against hazardous ionizing radiation. Computational study of energy-renewable and thermoelectric properties enables experimenters to investigate fresh applications for predicting photovoltaic materials with atomic-level accuracy.

Multidisciplinary space shield origami composite: Incorporating cosmic radiation shielding, space debris impact protection, solar radiative heat shielding, and atomic oxygen erosion resistance

Origami composites have been extensively utilized in space structures with constrained payload volumes due to their capability to efficiently transform compact structures into larger surface area or volume configurations. The proposed origami composite incorporates hydrogen-rich benzoxazine polymers known for their high radiation shielding capability and ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene fibers known for their high ballistic performance, radiation shielding capability, and flexibility. The proposed origami composite and manufacturing method can enhance bonding strength by achieving precise origami shapes and utilizing the same matrix for both flexible and rigid components. Membrane sheets are manufactured at a low curing temperature to provide flexibility, while rigid facets are separately manufactured at a high curing temperature to increase rigidity. The integration of a polyimide protection layer significantly enhances space environment resistance and reduces mass loss due to atomic oxygen erosion. Despite a slight decrease in ballistic performance after exposure to space conditions, the proposed origami composite maintains superior ballistic performance compared to conventional space materials and conventional origami composites. Compared to existing origami composites or conventional space materials, the proposed origami composite exhibited superior radiation shielding performance. The laminated structure of the proposed origami composite can offer some solar radiation shielding capability. The proposed origami composite offers a multifunctional origami solution as a membrane-space shield material, fulfilling requirements for high ballistic performance, cosmic radiation shielding, solar radiative heat shielding, and space environmental resistance.

Research on B4C/PEEK Composite Material Radiation Shielding

There are various types of charged particles in the space environment, which can cause different types of radiation damage to materials and devices, leading to on-orbit failures and even accidents for spacecraft. Developing lightweight and efficient radiation-shielding materials is an effective approach to improving the inherent protection of spacecraft. The protective performance of different materials against proton and electron spectra in the Earth’s radiation belts is evaluated using a Geant4 simulation. Based on the simulation results, suitable hardening components were selected to design composite materials, and B4C/PEEK composites with different B4C contents were successfully prepared. The experimental results demonstrate that the simulated and experimental results for the electron, proton and neutron shielding performance of the B4C/PEEK composites are consistent. These composites exhibit excellent radiation shielding capabilities against electrons, protons and neutrons, and the radiation protection performance improves with increasing B4C content in the B4C/PEEK composite materials.

Exploring thermodynamic, physical and radiative interaction properties of quinary FeNiCoCr high entropy alloys (HEAs): a multi-directional characterization study

To qualify for nuclear applications, materials must meet specific criteria, including mechanical properties, high-temperature behavior, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature oxidation resistance. High Entropy Alloys (HEAs) are particularly suitable for these applications due to their unique properties. Consequently, we conducted a theoretical and simulation-based approaches to assess some critical properties including radiation shielding properties of some quinary FeNiCoCr HEAs. In this study, we focused on quinary FeNiCoCr HEAs, whose corrosion properties have been previously examined in the literature. We investigated the thermodynamic and radiation shielding properties of HEAs with sixteen different compositions. Our methodology included evaluating thermodynamic parameters such as Mixing Entropy (∆Smix) and Mixing Enthalpy (∆Hmix), as well as structural characteristics like Valence Electron Concentration (VEC) and Atomic Size Difference (δ). This allowed us to systematically deduce the phase behavior and stability of various HEAs. Through computational modeling, we assessed the radiation shielding capabilities of these alloys, particularly their effectiveness in attenuating gamma ray and fast neutrons. The results identified FeNiCoCrW as the alloy with the lowest fast neutron removal cross-section values, highlighting its potential for nuclear applications. Its high melting point and the synergistic interplay between its elemental composition and thermodynamic properties suggest broad applicability in extreme environments. Thus, FeNiCoCrW emerges as a promising HEA with multifunctional capabilities, warranting further exploration and potential integration into advanced engineering solutions.

Monolithically integrated neuromorphic electronic skin for biomimetic radiation shielding.

Melanogenesis, a natural responsive mechanism of human skin to harmful radiation, is a self-triggered defensive neural activity safeguarding the body from radiation exposure in advance. With the increasing significance of radiation shielding in diverse medical health care and wearable applications, a biomimetic neuromorphic optoelectronic system with adaptive radiation shielding capability is often needed. Here, we demonstrate a transparent and flexible metal oxide-based photovoltaic neuromorphic defensive system. By using a monolithically integrated ultraflexible optoelectronic circuitry and electrochromic device, seamless neural processing for ultraviolet (UV) radiation shielding including history-based sensing, memorizing, risk recognition, and blocking can be realized with piling the entire signal chain into the flexible devices. The UV shielding capability of the system can be evaluated as autonomous blocking up to 97% of UV radiation from 5 to 90 watts per square meter in less than 16.9 seconds, demonstrating autonomously modulated sensitivity and response time corresponding to UV environmental conditions and supplied bias.

Influence of transition metals on the radiation shielding capability of Eu3+ ions doped telluro borophosphate glasses

The present investigation is focused on the synthesis and analyses of Eu3+ doped strontium telluro borophosphate glasses for effective shielding. Out of the prepared glasses, Nb added glass shows a closely packed structure with higher elastic moduli suggesting that it can withstand longitudinal stress. The average coordination number values decline with the structural modification from 4.319 to 3.737 which explains BOs being created in the solid system. The MC simulation code estimates the attenuation coefficient for the samples and illustrates certain metal oxides' behaviour in enhancing the radiation shielding properties of the fabricated glasses. This investigation shows Nb2O5 containing glasses have the best impact on the fabricated glasses' radiation shielding properties, where the produced glasses’ LAC was in the 29.609–0.193 cm−1 range. Also, a thickness of 3 cm from the aforementioned glass has the ability to attenuate over 62.5 %, and 43.9 of the emitted photons with Eγ values of 0.867 MeV and 2.506 MeV, respectively. On the other hand, the metal oxide with the lowest shielding enhancement is ZnO, where its LAC reduced from 22.896 to 0.176 cm−1 with a γ-photon energy increase of 0.01 and 2.506 MeV, respectively.

Indirect effect of elevated pressure via the modulations of crystals intrinsic parameters on radiation shielding efficacy: A comparative study between two α-quartz homeotypes SiO2and GeO2

This study investigates the indirect effects of elevated pressure on the radiation shielding competence of two α-quartz homeotypes, SiO2 and GeO2, by examining the modulations of their crystal intrinsic tetrahedral parameters. The study focuses on structural modifications and their correlations with radiation attenuation properties. The results show that both homeotypes exhibit energy-dependent mass attenuation coefficients (MAC) and linear attenuation coefficients (LAC). SiO2 demonstrates higher transparency to incident radiation compared to GeO2, with a relative difference in MAC values of 91% at 0.015 MeV, decreasing to 28% at 15 MeV. However, within the energy range of 0.4 < E < 4 MeV, SiO2 exhibits higher MAC values than GeO2, with the MAC of SiO2 surpassing GeO2 by 17% at 0.4 MeV. The pressure dependence of LAC values indicates that both SiO2 and GeO2 become more effective in attenuating radiation under higher pressure conditions. For instance, at 0.015 MeV, the LAC of GeO2 increased from 274.826 cm−1 at 0.001 GPa to 308.073 cm−1 at 5.57 GPa. GeO2 generally exhibits higher LAC values than SiO2 across the energy and pressure ranges studied. It can be concluded that the structural modifications induced by elevated pressure significantly enhance the radiation shielding capabilities of α-quartz homeotypes, particularly GeO2, making them promising candidates for advanced shielding materials in various high-radiation environments.

Cerium oxide-reinforced Fe2O3–Na2O–SiO2–B2O3 glass matrix for protection against ionizing X and gamma rays

Radiation shielding glass is an interesting material in the field of radiation shielding due to its remarkable features. In the present paper, we investigated the physical properties of radiation-shielding glass materials that consist of sodium oxide (Na2O), cerium oxide (CeO2), and iron oxide (Fe2O3) incorporated into borosilicate glasses with the formula 90SiO2-(70-x)B2O3+ 20Na2O–1Fe2O3-xCeO2 (CeFeNaBS-glasses). One of the distinguishing characteristics of this glass system is its enhanced radiation shielding capabilities. The structural studies indicated a gradual rise in glass density from 1.954 to 2.658 g/cm with further CeO2 doping. Optical studies showed that the optical band gaps went down from 3.41 eV to 3.33 eV as the amount of CeO2 in the CeFeNaBS-glass matrix rose. The decrease in optical band gap has been correlated with the rising basicity. Also, the increased basicity behavior induces more conversion of Ce3+ to Ce4+ ions by losing a 4f electron. Moreover, with further CeO2 additions, the glass color changed from light brown to dark brown. The presence of Ce4+ ions with further CeO2 additions is responsible for this color transformation. The linear and non-linear refractive indices exhibit enhanced behaviors with higher CeO2 concentrations. We used declining basicity and polarizability behaviors to describe this behavior. The incorporation of larger CeO2 concentrations enhances the ability to improve radiation shielding properties, as demonstrated by the increased values of the mass attenuation coefficient and half-value layer, especially in the energy ranges of soft tissues X-ray and hard tissues X-ray. Hence, the investigated CeFeNaBS-glasses exhibit enhanced transparency and radiation shielding capabilities, rendering them highly suitable for implementation in this domain.

Analyzing neutron and gamma ray shielding properties in varied W-B2O3 ratios: methodological comparisons and Monte Carlo simulation

This study aims to comprehensively assess the radiation shielding efficacy of W-B2O3 composite material across varying ratios, contrasting its performance with glass and established literature data. The investigation involves comparing the radiation shielding capabilities of these materials using Geant4-based GATE simulation, XCOM, and EpiXS programs across energy levels ranging from 0.3–2.516 MeV. The research involved calculating and comparing the effective removal cross-section values of these materials with those commonly employed in neutron shielding. The findings indicate superior radiation shielding capabilities in the composite material compared to glass. Moreover, the mass attenuation coefficients were derived through GATE simulation at energy levels of 6 and 18 MV mono and spectrum energy. These values were then compared with theoretical methods; XCOM, XMuDat, and an innovative methodology outlined in the current literature. In the new approach, the effective atomic numbers of the materials were determined using the mass attenuation coefficients.

Influence of La3+ ions on the structural, elastic, optical, and radiation shielding properties of Cr2O3-Doped heavy metal glasses

This study investigates the effect of La³⁺ rare earth ions on the structural, elastic, optical, and radiation shielding features of heavy metal borate glass (B₂O₃-PbO) doped with Cr₂O₃. Density measurements and FT-IR spectra analysis revealed the role of La3+ ions as a network modifier, where successive additions of La2O3 content led to a gradual increase in the density and an increase in the non-bridging oxygen content resulting from the structural transformation between the BO4 and BO3 units. The significant improvement in the elastic modulus and microhardness factor moduli was confirmed by calculating the change in ultrasonic velocities through the glassy system. The structural modifications induced by La³⁺ ions narrowed the band gap and increased the Urbach energy, indicating higher disorder within the glass network. The linear refractive indices increased due to increased optical basicity and electronic polarization. Optical absorption results showed that Cr⁶⁺/Cr³⁺ ions occupy octahedral/tetrahedral sites, with the tendency for Cr³⁺ cations to occupy more octahedral sites with increasing La₂O₃ content. The produced samples showed a greenish-yellow color caused by the absorption band centered at ∼415 nm associated with the electronic transition ⁴A₂g(F)→2Eg(G). The ligand field effect highlighted the significance of La³⁺ cations in increasing the crystalline field intensity surrounding Cr³⁺ cations and reducing the nephelauxetic ratio, signifying enhanced covalent character between Cr³⁺ cations and neighboring ions. Moreover, the radiation shielding capabilities of the glassy system were analyzed and compared with standard shielding materials, confirming superior shielding performance in samples with the highest La₂O₃ content.

A first-time fusion of TiNbWMoZrOx high entropy oxide (HEO) with zinc-tellurite glass: Toward superior physical properties

While numerous oxide additives have traditionally been employed to enhance the radiation shielding capabilities of glasses, the unique attributes of high-entropy oxides (HEOs), a group of materials acclaimed in contemporary material science for their distinctive properties have remained unexamined in this specific area. This novel study explores the enhancement of radiation shielding properties in zinc-tellurite glasses through the integration of TiNbWMoZrOx High Entropy Oxides (HEO). Utilizing advanced synthesis techniques, including mechanical alloying and oxidation, the research successfully incorporates HEOs into glass matrices, aiming to improve gamma-ray and neutron attenuation. Characterization through X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirms the uniform distribution and structural integrity of the HEOs within the glasses. The synthesis of glass samples with a base structure suitable for the molar composition of 25ZnO.75TeO2 (mol%) and glass samples doped with TiNbWMoZrOx (HEO) was carried out using the traditional high-temperature melting and annealing method. The outcomes demonstrate a concentration-dependent increase in shielding efficacy, particularly highlighting the superior performance of glasses doped with 4 mol% of TiNbWMoZrOx (HEC2–4), which exhibit significantly enhanced mass attenuation coefficients, lower half-value layers, and higher effective atomic numbers. This indicates the effective role of HEOs in boosting radiation protection capabilities. Comparative analysis with traditional shielding materials showcases the HEC2–4 glasses' competitive advantage, underlining their potential as a versatile shielding solution. It can be concluded that incorporating TiNbWMoZrOx high entropy oxides into zinc-tellurite glasses significantly augments their radiation shielding properties, offering a novel approach for enhancing protection against gamma-ray and neutron in various applications.

Microstructure, thermal and radiation shielding properties of aluminium‐silicon‐boron alloy prepared by mechanical alloying

AbstractThis study focused on developing microstructural, thermal, and radiation shielding changes in Al50Si25B25 powders using mechanical alloying techniques. Based on the x‐ray powder diffraction data, the crystallite size and microstrain of the 100‐hours milled powder were calculated as 0.25 nm and 50.33 %, respectively. The solubility of silicon in the α‐aluminium matrix increased with longer mechanical alloying duration. Transmission electron microscope analyses further showed that the alloy particulates had an average size of 3 μm and an average grain size of 0.226 nm. The radiation shielding properties of the Al50Si25B25 powders indicated that the Linear Attenuation Coefficient value increased from 0.0554±0.1689 cm−1 to 1.0632±0.2425 cm−1 with an increase in the thickness of the Al50Si25B25 alloy. This work successfully demonstrated the potential of mechanical alloying techniques to enhance the microstructural and thermal properties of Al50Si25B25 powders. It highlighted their effectiveness in providing radiation shielding capabilities when varying the thickness of the alloy.

First-ever fusion of high entropy alloy (HEA) with glass: Enhancing of critical properties of zinc-tellurite glass through TiZrNbHfTaOx incorporation

Many oxide additives have historically been used to enhance the radiation shielding properties of glasses, yet the potential of high-entropy oxides (HEOs), which have gained popularity in material science for their unique properties, has not been explored in this context. This study is the first to investigate the radiation shielding capabilities of Zinc-Tellurite glass infused with High Entropy Oxide (HEO), specifically utilizing the novel attributes of a synthesized TiZrNbHfTa. In this study, the nuclear shielding properties of newly fabricated Zinc-Tellurite glasses doped with TiZrNbHfTaOx with a composition (25ZnO·75TeO2)100-x. (TiZrNbHfTaOx)x (x = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 mol%) were studied. Through the synthesis of a TiZrNbHfTa HEA and its integration into glass structure, we have developed a series of novel materials with enhanced protective properties against both gamma-ray and neutron radiation. Experimental results demonstrate that the HEO-infused glass, particularly the HEC1-4 composition, significantly surpasses traditional shielding materials in neutron attenuation, evidenced by its superior effective neutron removal cross-section. Additionally, the HEC1-4 glass demonstrates improved gamma-ray shielding capabilities, with increased mass attenuation coefficients and decreased half-value layers, indicating a higher capacity for photon interaction and absorption. It can be concluded that the incorporation of High Entropy Alloys into glass matrices not only opens a new frontier in radiation shielding materials but also provides a versatile and effective solution with considerable potential for enhancing safety measures in radiation-prone environments.

Mechanical and, photon transmission properties of rare earth element (REE) doped BaO–B2O3–Li2O–Al2O3–P2O5 glasses for protection applications

This study explores the dual functional capabilities of rare earth (REE) doped BaO–B2O3–Li2O–Al2O3–P2O5 glasses, with an emphasis on the 1.50Dy-Tb-Eu composition, previously recognized for its superior luminescent properties. By employing Monte Carlo simulations and Phy-X/PSD software, we have methodically evaluated the gamma-ray and neutron shielding efficacies of these materials. Our key findings indicate that the 1.50Dy-Tb-Eu sample not only excels in luminescence but also demonstrates superior gamma-ray shielding, characterized by low exposure buildup factors, and other related properties across varying energy spectra. Furthermore, the Tb-Eu3.0 variant, enriched with the highest Europium (Eu) content among the bi-REE doped glasses, exhibited the most effective neutron attenuation. Additionally, our investigation into the mechanical properties of these glasses, through the estimation of their Elastic Moduli using a mixture rule approach, revealed a significant enhancement in stiffness with the incorporation of Dy, Eu, and Tb. The mechanical properties were evaluated using a mixture rule approach to estimate the Elastic Moduli. This highlights the crucial role of these dopants in not only improving the luminescent and radiation shielding capabilities but also in strengthening the mechanical integrity of the glasses. The study substantiates the premise that the integration of specific REE elements significantly enhances the glass materials' shielding properties without compromising their luminescent functionality. The obtained findings would be significant for implications on the development of advanced materials tailored for industries where high optical quality, effective radiation protection, and robust mechanical properties are paramount. It can be concluded that Dy-Tb-Eu incorporation into BaO–B2O3–Li2O–Al2O3–P2O5 glasses can be considered as a monotonic strategy to achieve a harmonious balance between luminescence, radiation shielding, and mechanical performance.

Microstructure and radiation shielding characteristics of PVA fiber-reinforced ultra-high performance concrete

The application of nuclear technologies simulates the development of radiation shielding materials. Traditional heavy-weight concrete used for radiation shielding is limited in practical construction due to the poor mechanical properties and durability. This study developed a PVA fiber-reinforced ultra-high performance concrete (UHPFRC) with magnetite as heavy aggregates used for radiation shielding. Due to the scientific skeleton design, UHPFRC exhibits superior mechanical properties, with compressive strength and flexural strength reaching up to 121.9 MPa and 23.2 MPa, respectively. The microstructure of UHPFRC was investigated in detail and the results revealed that the incorporation of PVA fibers refined the pore structure of UHPFRC. The interfacial transition zone between magnetite aggregates and cementitious matrix in UHPFRC was much denser than that in traditional concrete due to the low water to binder ratio. The gamma and neutron radiations shielding capacity of UHPFRC were evaluated by the combination of actual measurement and simulation. By introducing light nuclei and refining the pore structure, the incorporation of PVA fibers improved the neutron radiation shielding capabilities of UHPFRC by 5.1%.

Gamma Radiation Shielding Efficiency of High Entropy Alloys: A Comparative Study

High entropy alloys (HEAs) represent a novel class of materials characterized by their unique composition of four or more principal elements in near-equiatomic ratios, offering exceptional properties for various applications. This study investigates the gamma radiation shielding parameters of selected HEAs, namely FeCoNiCrMn, TaNbHfZrTi, NbMoTaW, AlMoNbV, and NbTaTiV. Mass attenuation coefficients (MAC) were calculated by using EpiXS program over a photon energy range of 0.015-15 MeV and verified these results with the WinXCOM software. The findings reveal that the MAC values are highest at low photon energies due to the photoelectric effect, with notable peaks corresponding to the K-shell absorption edges of specific elements. The half-value layer (HVL) and mean free path (MFP) values indicate that thicker HEA samples are required to achieve effective shielding at higher energies. Additionally, the effective atomic number (Zeff) and exposure buildup factors (EBF) were analyzed. The results demonstrate that NbMoTaW and TaNbHfZrTi, offer superior radiation shielding capabilities compared to conventional shielding materials, with higher usability in environments subjected to gamma radiation. These findings underscore the potential of HEAs in advanced shielding applications, emphasizing their role in enhancing safety and performance in high-demand sectors.