In a significant stride towards enhancing radiation shielding materials, a recent study published in the Journal of Science: Advanced Materials and Devices (which translates to Журнал науки: передовые материалы и устройства in Russian) has unveiled the comparative effects of various metal oxides on the mechanical and radiation shielding properties of fabricated glasses. Led by Dr. Mohamed Y. Hanfi of Ural Federal University in Ekaterinburg, Russia, the research delves into the potential of Fe2O3, CuO, TiO2, and CaO to bolster the performance of lead-based glasses in advanced applications.
The study, which introduced mechanical parameters using the Makishima–Mackenzie model, revealed that the hardness of the glasses increased to 5.0 GPa due to the addition of TiO2, while the flexibility saw a notable improvement (σ = 0.264) because of Fe2O3. “The mechanical properties of these glasses are crucial for their durability and practical applications,” Dr. Hanfi explained. “Our findings indicate that different oxides can significantly enhance these properties, making them more suitable for demanding environments.”
The research also quantified the radiation shielding capabilities of the glasses using a NaI(Tl) detector. The linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) was found to drop by approximately 60% with the increase of photon energy from 0.511 to 1.332 MeV. Notably, CuO-doped glasses exhibited the highest LAC at 0.511 MeV (0.42 ± 0.09 cm⁻¹), while Fe2O3-doped glasses performed best at higher energies, with LACs of 0.297 and 0.203 ± 0.03 cm⁻¹ at 0.662 and 1.332 MeV, respectively. “The energy-dependent trend is particularly interesting,” Dr. Hanfi noted. “It suggests that different oxides can be optimized for specific energy ranges, enhancing the versatility of these materials.”
The half-value layer, a critical parameter for radiation shielding, varied from approximately 1.6 cm at 0.511 MeV to approximately 3.8 cm at 1.332 MeV, depending on the dopant. These outcomes indicate that Fe2O3 and CuO are the most effective oxides for improving both mechanical hardness and γ-ray attenuation. “Our research suggests that these oxides can be considered suitable for advanced radiation shielding applications,” Dr. Hanfi stated. “This could have significant implications for the energy sector, particularly in nuclear power plants and other high-radiation environments.”
The study’s findings could shape future developments in the field by providing a clearer understanding of how different metal oxides affect the mechanical and radiation shielding properties of glasses. This knowledge could lead to the development of more efficient and durable materials, ultimately enhancing safety and performance in various industrial applications. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the demand for advanced radiation shielding materials is expected to grow, making this research particularly timely and relevant.
Published in the Journal of Science: Advanced Materials and Devices, this study offers valuable insights into the potential of metal oxides to enhance the performance of fabricated glasses. As Dr. Hanfi and his team continue to explore this area, their work could pave the way for innovative solutions in radiation shielding and beyond.