Preparation and Performance Study of Radiation-Proof Ultra-High-Performance Concrete

Abstract

With the continuous development of nuclear technology, it is necessary to urgently solve the nuclear safety problem. γ-rays have a strong penetrating power. The γ-ray-shielding performance of ordinary concrete prepared with natural sand is weak and cannot meet the practical application of engineering. The γ-ray shielding performance of concrete can be effectively improved through the use of titaniferous sand with a better γ-ray protection effect. To prepare ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) that can provide radiation protection, the influence law of its performance was investigated. The effects of ilmenite sand on the workability, mechanical properties, durability, and radiation-shielding properties of UHPC were investigated via mix testing, compressive strength and flexural strength testing, and a radiation-shielding simulation. The results show that an appropriate amount of ilmenite sand can improve the ultra-high-performance concrete’s work performance; however, ilmenite sand has little effect on its compressive strength. Although it is not conducive to the development of flexural and tensile strength, the γ-ray shielding performance of the UHPC increases with an increase in the addition of ilmenite sand. When the titanite sand admixture is 70%, the γ-ray linear absorption coefficient of the prepared UHPC is 0.158 cm−1, and the γ-ray shielding performance is significantly improved; meanwhile, its durability performance is excellent.