Advanced polymeric matrix utilizing nanostructured bismuth and tungsten oxides for gamma rays shielding

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nuclear Engineering
• Polymer Science

Background:

• Gamma radiation poses risks in medical and nuclear fields, necessitating effective shielding materials.
• Traditional shielding materials often have limitations in terms of weight, flexibility, or cost.
• Development of advanced composite materials is crucial for improved radiation protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the gamma radiation shielding capabilities of novel polymer composites.
• To evaluate the effect of incorporating bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) and tungsten oxide (WO3) nanoparticles into a glycidyl methacrylate matrix.
• To assess the potential of these composites for applications in radiation shielding.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of polymer composites by integrating Bi2O3 and WO3 nanoparticles into a glycidyl methacrylate matrix.
• Gamma radiation attenuation measurements using isotopes Ba-133, Co-60, Cs-137, and Na-22.
• Characterization of composite structures using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Main Results:

• The incorporation of Bi2O3 and WO3 nanoparticles significantly enhanced the gamma radiation attenuation properties of the polymer composites.
• Increased linear and mass attenuation coefficients were observed with the addition of nanoparticles.
• Experimental results demonstrated good agreement with theoretical calculations using the XCOM database.
• Composites showed particular efficiency in attenuating lower-energy gamma rays.

Conclusions:

• The developed polymer composites exhibit superior gamma radiation shielding performance compared to the base polymer.
• The enhanced shielding is attributed to the effective integration of Bi2O3 and WO3 nanoparticles.
• These novel composites hold significant promise for radiation shielding applications in the medical and nuclear industries.