Neutron shielding and mechanical properties of short carbon fiber reinforced aluminium 6061-boron carbide hybrid composite

In this study, the neutron shielding and mechanical properties of short carbon fiber reinforced aluminium 6061 boron carbide hybrid composite have been investigated by simulation and experimental methods. The simulation results indicated that in the energy range of the epithermal neutrons which have greater kinetic energy than thermal neutrons (0.0253ev), the introduction of fiber materials containing carbon atoms into aluminium 6061 boron carbide increases the probability of neutron scattering, meanwhile the epithermal neutrons slowed down by the carbon atoms, hence the shielding performance will be improved. Additionally, compared with aluminium 6061-boron carbide composite, it was found that the short carbon fiber reinforced hybrid composite has better strengthening effect on matrix, mechanical tests show the enhancement in tensile strength and hardness. Moreover, the short carbon fiber can hinder crack propagation and absorb fracture work during the stress process while enhance the toughness of the neutron shielding composite.

Automated summary

The study found that short carbon fiber reinforced aluminium 6061 boron carbide hybrid composite has better neutron shielding and mechanical properties compared to traditional aluminium 6061-boron carbide composite. Simulation and experimental methods were used to draw these conclusions.