Influence of Lead Nanoparticles on Structural, Morphological, and Mechanical Characteristics of (SiR-PU/Micro-Pb) Composites and Radiation Shielding Applications

Abstract

This research includes the manufacture of a polymeric nanocomposite consisting of silicone rubber/polyurethane as a base, with the addition of the first filler of micro-lead with a ratio of 300 pphr and the second filler of nano-lead with different ratios (0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 pphr). With the addition of hexane (liquid state) to the superposition using the casting technique at room temperature. The structural properties of the surfaces of the samples were measured using Fourier transformation spectroscopy (FT-IR) and the scanning electron microscope (SEM). In addition to studying the mechanical properties represented by each hardness, tensile, elongation, and elastic modulus. (FT-IR) showed the absence of a chemical reaction for all samples. While SEM measurements showed a homogeneous distribution of micro-lead and nano-lead in the presence of hexane equally, and there were no voids in the eyes of the prepared rubber equally. For the mechanical properties, we see that the hardness, tensile strength and modulus of elasticity continue to improve with the increase in the number of lead nanoparticles. And a decrease in elongation as a result of inverse proportion to the modulus of elasticity. From the results obtained, this composite can be used in gamma ray attenuation applications in shielding, especially in medical and industrial fields.