Gamma-ray and neutron shielding behaviour of CaO-K2O-P2O5 glass system modified with Bi2O3

Abstract

Bismuth modified phosphate glass system containing calcium and potassium was prepared and assessed for its applicability as transparent viewing windows for shielding against gamma-rays and neutrons in nuclear reactors. The structure of the glasses was studied by density, XRD and FTIR techniques. The gamma-ray shielding properties were studied at energies 356 and 662 keV both experimentally and theoretically (by XCOM and XMuDat programs) and compared with commonly used barite concrete. Exposure buildup factor was also investigated. The neutron shielding properties were studied and compared with some common neutron shielding materials (Boron Carbide, Polyethylene grains and ordinary concrete). Results indicate that the studied glasses with 0.2, 0.25, 0.3 wt. fraction Bi2O3 are potential candidates for gamma-ray and neutron shielding applications.