Comprehensive performance assessment of Bi- and Pb-based alloys for enhanced Gamma-Ray and neutron shielding applications

This comprehensive study investigates the radiation attenuation properties of various bismuth (Bi) and lead (Pb) based alloys, with a focus on identifying superior shielding materials for nuclear safety and industrial radiation protection. The research encompasses an in-depth analysis of seven alloys, namely GTSB5, Sn%40Bi, Bi50Sn50, A1, PbAl-4, Safe Alloy, and P1, assessing their efficacy in gamma-ray and neutron attenuation. Utilizing some computational tools, various parameters such as mass and linear attenuation coefficients, half and tenth value layer values, effective atomic and electron numbers, buildup factors, and transmission values were evaluated. Our findings highlight Alloy P1's outstanding performance, attributed to its high density (11.05 g/cm3) and optimized elemental composition, including Silver (Ag). In addition, P1 demonstrates exceptional gamma-ray attenuation across multiple energy spectra and superior neutron shielding capabilities, evidenced by its significant fast neutron removal cross-section (∑R, 0.12003 1/cm). The study revealed that the addition of Ag enhances the photon and beta particle absorption capacity, positioning P1 as a promising material in radiation shielding applications. The correlations between alloy density and gamma-ray shielding properties were particularly notable, with P1's density contributing to its enhanced attenuation capabilities. Furthermore, P1's lower half value layers (1.14469 cm) and tenth value layers (3.80256 cm) at 15 MeV indicate its efficiency in reducing radiation intensity with minimal material thickness.