Investigation on the usability of ABS-PLA filaments for neutron shielding

Knowing the benefits and harms of radiation to living cells increases the number of applications in radiation technology in parallel with economic developments. In order to be protected from the damage of radiation, the three basic laws of time, distance and shielding parameters are used. In addition, 3D printers have become able to produce small and large objects that we use for homes and businesses. Today, researches are carried out to use radiation shielding studies and 3D printer technology together. Active progress has been made as a result of these studies. In this context, it is thought that 3D printers will facilitate the production of radiation shielding materials in the desired size and design. In this study, some transition metals were added to ABS-PLA polymers used in 3D printers and the neutron shielding abilities of the obtained polymer composites were determined by using GEANT4 and FLUKA simulation programs according to neutron energy and material thickness. In addition, the fast neutron separation cross section was calculated theoretically. Among the obtained polymer composites, Tungsten doped composites for neutron shielding are expected to contribute to the literature.