Synthesis and Characterization of PMMA/Bi2O3-Fe2O3 Composites as Gamma Radiation Shielding

الملخص

This article deals with the mechanical characteristics and hardness issues of PMMA sample that is based on various aspects related to radiation attenuation capability. Different doping is considered in this study namely nano bismuth trioxide (Bi₂O₃) and nano iron trioxide (Fe₂O₃) at doping concentrations of 0%, 0.5%, 1%, 3%, and 5%. Linear attenuation coefficient, absorptivity, and transmittance were ascertained using Bismuth-207 (Bi²⁰⁷) and Cesium-137 (Cs¹³⁷) radioactive isotopes. The results demonstrate marked enhancements of hardness and radiation attenuating coefficients at higher doping levels notably at 5%. Furthermore, higher absorption values are associated with greater radiation effectiveness and more shield thickness and doping ratios. However, transmittance declines as the thickness of samples increases and the doping level rises. The results of these samples are quite encouraging and show the potential of being good radiation shielding materials; they have high linear attenuation coefficients.