Modeling of x-ray attenuation on SS316 metal foam shielding using MCNPX

Abstract

Abstract The use of lead plates as shielding to X-ray radiation has the disadvantages of being heavier and not environmentally friendly when compared to other materials. Currently, metal foam technology is developed that is expected to be close to the ability of lead plate as a radiation shielding that is lighter and environmentally friendly. This research was conducted by modeling SS316 stainless steel plates and foams for the thickness of 5-40 mm, the diameter of 2, 3, and 4 mm at an energy of 0.1, 0.662, and 1 MeV. The metal plate and foam modeling were carried out using the program of Monte Carlo N-Particle eXtended (MCNPX). Calculation of X-ray attenuation from the modeling results shows that SS316 stainless steel performance both in the form of plates and metal foams is almost equivalent to pure lead. From these results, it can be concluded that metal foam technology is expected to be a lighter and environmentally friendly lead-in radiation retaining material.