RADIATION SHIELDING PROPERTIES OF TIN-POLYDIMETHYLSILOXANE (PDMS) COMPOSITES AGAINST GAMMA RAY AT 356 KEV

Abstract

Radiation shielding materials are essential for various applications, but conventional lead-based (Pb) shields pose environmental and health risks. This study investigates polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) reinforced with tin as a sustainable alternative. Composites with varying tin concentrations were fabricated and analysed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) to evaluate structural integrity and morphology. Shielding performance was assessed through Mass Attenuation Coefficient (MAC), Half-Value Layer (HVL), and Radiation Protection Efficiency (RPE). The results indicate that increasing tin content improves attenuation performance. Composites with 50% and 60% tin filler exhibited the highest MAC values (0.0905 and 0.0762 cm² g^-1)  and RPE (16.26 and 16.89 %) while maintaining lower HVL (1.91 and 2.02 cm), respectively, making them the most promising candidates. Although control lead showed the highest MAC, Pb toxicity remains a major concern, reinforcing the need for alternative materials. FTIR analysis confirmed successful interaction between tin and PDMS, while FESEM images showed uniform tin dispersion at optimal concentrations. However, higher tin loading resulted in agglomeration, potentially affecting performance. Control PDMS exhibited the lowest efficiency, confirming its limited attenuation capability. Tin-reinforced composites demonstrated enhanced shielding due to tin’s high atomic number, increasing photon interactions. While HVL variations were observed, results suggest that an optimal tin concentration is necessary to achieve efficient shielding without compromising mechanical stability. In conclusion, tin-reinforced PDMS composites show strong potential as lead-free shielding materials with competitive attenuation properties. Their improved performance, combined with environmental and health benefits, supports their feasibility for radiation protection. Future work should focus on optimising tin dispersion and evaluating long-term durability. These findings contribute to the advancement of sustainable, non-toxic materials for shielding applications.