Gamma-Ray Shielding Properties of B4C, Al2O3, Fe2O3, and Their Composites Using MCNP and Phy-X/PSD: A Comparative Study

Document Type : Original Article

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1 physics department, faculty of science, Zagazig university, Zagazig, Egypt

2 physics department, faculty of science, Zagazig university

3 physics department, faculty of science, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt.

Abstract

Radiation poses significant hazards across various domains, including environmental, health, and social contexts. As a result, the development of effective shielding materials has become essential in the industry to mitigate these risks. This study focuses on the properties of Boron Carbide (B4C), Aluminum Oxide (Al2O3), and Iron Oxide (Fe2O3), all individually and in composite forms with varying weight percentages of each material. The fabricated samples are labeled S1 through S6. The investigation examined key shielding characteristics for gamma rays, including the Mass Attenuation Coefficient (MAC), Linear Attenuation Coefficient (LAC), Half Value Layer (HVL), and Mean Free Path (MFP). These characteristics were analyzed using the Phy-X/PSD software and the results from MCNP (Monte Carlo N-Particle Transport Code). The findings revealed strong agreement between the two calculation methods, with minimal discrepancies when energy reaches above 10 MeV. Among the samples, S2 (Fe2O3), S5 (30% B4C/40% Fe2O3/30% Al2O3), demonstrated the best shielding properties, while S1 (B4C) and S3 (Al2O3) exhibited the weakest shielding characteristics by both programs.

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