Structural investigation and interpretation of some alkali lead borate glasses as radiation shielding materials

Alkali lead borate glass compositions of 0.2 Na2O-(0.8 - x) B2O3-x PbO (with x = 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25, 0.3, 0.35, 0.4, 0.45, 0.5, and 0.55) have been prepared by melting at 1100 degrees C. All recorded FTIR absorption spectra were in the range of 400-2400 cm(-1), and different parameters such as N-4 and average B-O and Pb-O bonds have been determined. The density and molar volume parameters have been also obtained. In addition, both ultrasonic wave velocities (longitudinal and shear) were measured, and elastic moduli have been determined. The results were correlated and discussed in terms of the changing role of lead oxide from glass modifier to glass former at the concentration of 20 mol% PbO. The data gathered in the study along with those that were obtained through the mass absorption coefficient calculations suggested that those glass compositions are good shielding materials for gamma rays.