Effect of boron added cement on neutron and gamma radiation absorption capacity

In recent years, with the increased utilisation of nuclear technology, the significance of radiation protection has also been heightened. In order to achieve this objective, the gamma and neutron absorption capacities of the aforementioned mixtures were investigated through a series of experiments conducted on samples obtained by mixing specific ratios of tincal and ulexite ores, which were sourced from the Balıkesir-Bigadiç region, with cement. In the course of the research project, a series of experiments were conducted to ascertain the effects of different parameters on the subject. These experiments included Gamma and Neutron Absorption Experiments, as well as Pressure Tests, SEM and XRD analyses. The gamma radiation absorption capacities of the samples were examined through experimental means. Following the conduction of measurements at the energy levels of 13,375 keV and 385,851 keV, it was determined that the additives had a significant effect on radiation transmittance, particularly within the low and medium energy ranges. Upon analysis of the results, a general tendency to decrease in radiation absorption coefficient was observed for both minerals with an increase in doping ratio. This phenomenon became more pronounced, especially against high-energy gamma rays. Following a thorough evaluation of the available data, it was determined that boron minerals possess considerable potential in the domains of nuclear safety, radiation protection and construction materials. Furthermore, it was concluded that these minerals can contribute to the economic sustainability of the region and the reduction of foreign dependency by facilitating the transformation of domestic mineral resources in the Bigadiç region, a region which is home to significant boron reserves, into value-added products. Furthermore, it is hypothesised that radiation-attenuating composites developed with natural minerals can contribute to the dissemination of environmentally friendly material technologies, with the objective of minimising toxic waste production.