Radiation Attenuation Properties of Zinc-Borosilicate Glasses Containing Al2O3 and Gd2O3

Abstract

This study explores the radiation shielding properties of an xGd(2)O(3)- (60-x)ZnO-15B(2)O(3)-5Al(2)O(3)-20SiO(2)glass system (x=0-3 mol %) glass system using FLUKA and XCOM software. The glass system is interesting due to its potential applications in nuclear and medical settings, where effective radiation-shielding materials are crucial. The FLUKA Monte Carlo simulation package is utilized to model the interaction of gamma photons with the glass system. At the same time, the XCOM software calculates the macroscopic cross-sections based on their elemental composition. The investigation evaluates parameters such as attenuation coefficients, dose rates, neutron cross-section, and stopping power for different radiation sources and energies. Various configurations are analyzed by varying the Gd(2)O(3)concentrations in the present glass system to optimize shielding effectiveness. The results refer to the high radiation shielding potential of gamma rays and neutrons for the present glassy materials compared to previously studied shielding materials. The present study offers valuable insights into the radiation shielding properties of the studied glass system, facilitating the design and development of efficient radiation shielding materials for practical implementation in nuclear and medical industries.