Development of polymer-based gamma and neutron radiation shielding materials and secondary radiation calculation

Radiation has beneficial applications in various fields such as medical imaging, industrial applications, and energy production. However, since it poses potential risks to human health and the environment, it must be managed safely. In this context, the use of protective materials like lead is critically important to minimize the harmful effects of radiation. In this thesis, unique polymer composites were developed by adding MoS₂ and CaWO₄ metal powders at different ratios (5%, 10%, and 20%) to ABS polymer, and the gamma radiation shielding capabilities of these samples were evaluated through experimental, theoretical, and simulation methods. Additionally, the neutron shielding performance of the produced samples was examined using theoretical and simulation methods. The structural analyses of the samples were conducted with the SEM imaging technique, revealing the microstructural properties of the produced composites in detail.The results showed that ABS composites with 20% MoS₂ and CaWO₄ additives demonstrated superior gamma radiation shielding performance, particularly at low energy levels. These findings suggest that the developed composite materials could be strong candidates for advanced radiation protection applications. Data obtained from GEANT4 and FLUKA simulations also confirmed that the addition of these materials enhanced the shielding efficiency of the samples against thermal neutrons. Furthermore, the MS-3 and CW-3 samples produced within the scope of this thesis were found to exhibit better gamma radiation shielding performance, especially at low energy levels.