Potentiality of Nano Pb₂O₃–Enhanced Cement as a Nuclear Radiation Shield for Radiation Therapy Facilities

In the present investigation, the gamma and neutron shielding parameters of nano Pb₂O₃ incorporated into cement in proportions ranging from 0 to 5 wt% were determined using EpiXS and NGCal software. It was observed that the mass attenuation coefficient decreased with increasing photon energy. The introduction of higher concentrations of nano Pb₂O₃ into the cement resulted in a marked increase in the Pb K-edge. Cement samples enhanced with Pb₂O₃ content exhibited a pronounced peak in the effective atomic number in the lower energy regions. The exposure buildup factor showed a decrease in its value with increasing Pb₂O₃ content. Among the compositions used, pure cement with no Pb₂O₃ addition demonstrated a superior mass attenuation factor for both thermal and fast neutrons. A blend of 95% cement with 5% Pb₂O₃ emerged as the most effective gamma-ray shielding material within the tested energy range. A comparative analysis of this mix with other concrete types was conducted to evaluate its effectiveness as a shielding material. The findings suggest that this composition could benefit medical imaging and radiation therapy facilities.