Multifunctional polyurethane foam composites reinforced with B₄C/PbO/CdO for enhanced gamma and neutron radiation...

Developing lightweight and effective radiation shields is a critical challenge for many applications, from medical facilities to space missions. In this study, we present a novel polyurethane (PU) foam composite reinforced with a mixture of B₄C, PbO, and CdO fillers to enhance both gamma and neutron radiation shielding. Using a combination of Monte Carlo simulations (MCNP6 and GEANT4) and experimental measurements, we systematically evaluated the gamma attenuation properties of these composites with varying filler concentrations. Our results show that increasing filler content significantly improves the shielding performance, achieving a lead-equivalent thickness of up to 0.21 cm at a gamma energy of 0.662 MeV, while maintaining the lightweight and flexible nature of the polymer. Neutron shielding simulations reveal that B₄C and CdO effectively absorb neutrons, contributing to a multifunctional shield design. Microstructural analyses by FESEM and XRD confirm uniform filler dispersion and preserved crystalline structure within the polymer matrix, which are key factors for reliable shielding performance. This work highlights the potential of PU-based composites as versatile, practical alternatives to traditional heavy and bulky radiation shields, opening avenues for safer and more adaptable protection solutions.