Study on properties of boron bearing blast furnace slag composite as shielding material for D-T neutron generator

Recovery of boron bearing blast furnace slag (B3FS) as a highly cost-effective radiation shielding material can reduce radiation hazards and protect the environment. Four different shielding configurations based on the Monte Carlo Particle Transport Program (MCNP) has been established to calculate the percentage for neutron shielding, radiation dose and neutron flux to evaluate the shielding properties of B3FS composites for DeuteriumTritium (D-T) neutron. The properties of the B3FS composite are compared with common commercial shielding materials, include boron carbide (B4C), barite concrete, boron containing polyethylene (BPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), ordinary concrete, Portland concrete and lead. The results indicated that the B3FS composite has a high neutron shielding property, which is close to that of B4C, BPE, HDPE and some kinds of concrete under shielding plate configuration. The neutron shielding properties of the composite are similar to those of BPE and HDPE, and are better than other shielding materials under shielding material wrapping device configuration. Based on the results, B3FS composite can be used as a new type of neutron shielding material with excellent neutron shielding performance and environmental protection.

Automated summary

Recovery of boron bearing blast furnace slag (B3FS) as an effective radiation shielding material can reduce radiation hazards and protect the environment. Through Monte Carlo Particle Transport Program (MCNP), four different shielding configurations were established to evaluate the shielding properties of B3FS composites for Deuterium-Tritium (D-T) neutron. The results showed that the B3FS composite has high neutron shielding properties and can be used as a new type of neutron shielding material with excellent performance and environmental protection.