The f-factor, neutron, gamma radiation and proton shielding competences of glasses with Pb or Pb/Bi heavy elements for nuclear protection applications

Abstract

In this article, proton, neutron, and gamma-ray shielding competences of six glasses with PbO or PbO/Bi2O3 heavy metal oxides namely as Glass 1 to Glass 6 have been investigated via WinXcom and EXABCal computer codes. The maximum values of μm were equal to 50.6, 53.06, 72.51, 80.67, 99.54, and 102.35 cm2 g-1 at 0.015 MeV for Glass 1 to Glass 6, respectively. The μm of the glass's trend in ascending order for Glass 1 to Glass 6. Results of HVL and MFP of the glass's were trend in descending order for Glass 1 to Glass 6. The Zeff of glasses varied from 14.49 (1.5 MeV) to 37.78 (0.1 MeV) and from 43.93 (2 MeV) to 65.62 (0.02 MeV) for Glass 1 and Glass 6, respectively. The f-factor of Glass 5 and Glass 6 was maximum for throughout the energy spectrum. The buildup factors are low and grow with the penetration depth rapidly up to the maximum depth of 40 mfp. The values of ΣR were varied from 0.0947 to 0.1155 cm−1 for Glass1 to Glass 6, respectively. Glass 2 and Glass 6 are preferred fast neutron shield when compared with ordinary concrete, water, and graphite. Generally, the molar concentration of PbO or PbO + Bi2O3 improved the shielding capacity of the investigated glasses.