On the Characterization of a “Campo del Cielo” Meteorite Using Photon Energy Interaction and Radiation Absorption Parameters

Abstract

Research on the impact of meteorite chemical composition on radiation interaction parameters is scarce. Understanding how photons of varying energies interact with meteorites is fundamental to grasp these extraterrestrial bodies and facilitate future space missions. Our research utilized scanning electron microscopy and X-ray fluorescence techniques to analyze the elemental composition of meteorites found in the regions called “Campo del Cielo,” in Argentina. Scientists discovered the second heaviest meteorite in this planetary region, composed primarily of Fe and Ni, which comprise over 95% of its chemical composition based on our results. The meteorite fragments studied presented Fe and Ni contents ranging from 88.55 to 93.56% and 5.55 to 7.24%, respectively. This result confirms that the meteorite studied belongs to the IAB Og group. No differences were observed in the attenuation coefficient or in the atomic and electronic cross-sections due to variations in photon energy. Similarities in the chemical composition of the fragment samples explain this result. The molecular cross-section was more sensitive to differences in the chemical composition of the samples, mainly influenced by the dependence of this parameter on the molecular weight of the elements of the fragment studied. The effective atomic number and electronic density were also sensitive to the chemical composition of the samples, mainly due to the Ni content. The fact that the meteorite studied is mostly made of Fe and Ni shows that this material has a high capacity for attenuating radiation and can effectively shield radiation. This result could be of great interest, especially in future space missions when materials found in space could be used to provide protection against radiation.