Advancing neutron and photon shielding for space technology and electronic protection: Investigation of Nylon-Based and non-nylon-based polymers as soft protection materials through PHITS code

This study investigates the neutron and photon attenuation properties of various Nylon-Based and Non-Nylon-Based Polymers as soft protection materials for space technology and related applications. We analyzed the material densities, mass and linear attenuation coefficients, half-value layers, mean free paths, effective atomic numbers, effective electron densities, fast neutron effective removal cross-sections, and energy absorption buildup factor values of several polymers through PHITS code and other computational tools. Nylon Type 11 (Rilsan) emerged as a standout, offering substantial resistance to neutron radiation, highlighting its potential in sectors where neutron shielding is paramount. Conversely, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), characterized by its unique composition, demonstrated superior gamma-ray attenuation capabilities, making it an attractive option for environments predominantly exposed to gamma radiation. Our results showed that the efficacy of PVC in gamma shielding and Nylon Type 11's (Rilsan) notable neutron attenuation, demonstrating their potential as lightweight and environmentally sustainable alternatives for specific applications where lead's heavy weight poses a challenge. While lead remains superior in gamma shielding due to its high atomic number and density, the tested polymers offer practical advantages in applications requiring weight reduction and environmental considerations.