Modern Trends in Epoxy Based Materials Used for Shielding Am-Be Neutron Source

E. I. Khalil, H. Abo Elez, Dalia Anwar, M. Fayez-Hassan

Abstract: This work introduces a modern neutron shielding supplies with different epoxy based materials. The method has a lot of advantages such as; the success of these materials to have small density, have better and low neutrons transmission trends, increases the strength properties, improve the impermeability of cement mortar and increases resistance to chemicals and salts. 5 Curie Americium?Beryllium neutron source was used for the purposes of sample irradiation in thermal neutron mode. Different ratios of sand, cement, gravel, boric acid and iron powder were finally mixed with epoxy before adding hardener. The foil activation method based on 115In was used for thermal neutron monitoring. This new introduced shielding materials for thermal neutrons can be used successfully for nuclear reaction laboratories, in basic research field, radiotherapy laboratories and industrial applications.

Keywords: Neutron, shielding, Neutron transmission, epoxy based shielding materials