Enhanced radiation shielding via incorporating europium oxide in 316L stainless steel: Synthesis, physical, microstructural, shielding, and mechanical properties
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: 316L stainless steel is widely utilized in various industries due to its excellent corrosion resistance , mechanical strength , and biocompatibility, making it a preferred material for applications in nuclear filed. However, enhancing its radiation shielding and mechanical properties through reinforcement strategies, such as the addition of high-Z materials like Europium(III) oxide , is crucial for extending its functionality in high-radiation environments, where improved performance is essential for safety and durability. In this study, 316L stainless steel composites reinforced with varying amounts of Eu 2 O 3 (1%, 5%, 10%, and 20%) were synthesized and investigated for their structural, mechanical, and radiation shielding properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed that the face-centered cubic (FCC) structure of the steel matrix was preserved up to 5% Eu 2 O 3 reinforcement, while higher concentrations led to phase formation and crystallographic changes. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis showed uniform element distribution at low reinforcement levels, with particle clustering at 20% Eu 2 O 3 . Transmission factors (TFs) were evaluated using PHITS simulations for photon energies of 0.662 MeV, 1.1732 MeV, and 1.3325 MeV. The 20% Eu 2 O 3 composite exhibited the lowest TF and highest attenuation properties, confirmed by mass and linear attenuation coefficients . Elastic modulus values decreased from 224.46 GPa in pure 316L to 189.26 GPa with 20% Eu 2 O 3 reinforcement, reflecting the inverse relationship between mechanical stiffness and radiation shielding performance. Benchmarking against other shielding materials demonstrated superior performance of the Eu 2 O 3 -reinforced steel in gamma-ray attenuation. The 20% Eu 2 O 3 composite shows strong potential for applications in nuclear radiation shielding where attenuation efficiency is prioritized over mechanical properties.
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,430
OpenAlex ID: W4405098137