Application of Neutron-Absorbing Composites Based on Thermoplastic Elastomer and Boron Nitride in 3D Printing

A new composite material based on thermoplastic elastomer is developed for the 3D printing of neutron-absorbing products. It is shown that the use of thermoplastic elastomer in the development of material for the 3D printing of products allows for the required neutron absorption properties to be achieved, significantly increasing the technological effectiveness of the composition and preserving its applicability in additive technologies. The concentration of boron nitride in the composite, which allows achieving the effect of absorption of neutron radiation by the material of 2.4 Å/1.2 Å (3/1) to a penetration depth of 1.4 mm, while maintaining its physical and mechanical properties, was 25%. The physical and mechanical characteristics of the developed material are not inferior to unfilled plastics: tensile strength σ_max = 8.1 MPa and tear resistance T_s = 76 N/m.