Validating experimental data for attenuation coefficients of developed polymer composites in shielding applications through Monte Carlo simulation

Abstract

Abstract The widespread use of composites in an ionizing environment raises durability concerns, particularly when performance is required over a longer period, in a radiation environment. The goal of this study was to measure the attenuation coefficient for the polymer composite developed for the radiation shielding application and validate it with the well-known Monte Carlo simulation. A radiation-hardened epoxy resin was developed in the laboratory by utilizing various compositions which is capable of being employed as a shielding material in a nuclear environment. To develop a radiation-hardened layer, to some extent, raised the density of the material, using suitable fillers. Polymer stabilizers were used single or in combination. The specimens were irradiated to determine the developed material’s shielding properties. The prepared composites’ radiation absorption is evaluated using an absorption coefficient. Experiments with gamma radiation using an Am Be Neutron source were conducted to determine the linear absorption coefficient. Monte Carlo simulation was utilized to predict the absorption coefficient for developed composites and the results were compared with experimental data.