Plant MaterialsDOE-HDBK-1017/2-93SHIELDING MATERIALSSince alpha and beta particles can be easily shielded against, they do not present a major problemin the nuclear reactor plant.SummaryThe important information in this chapter is summarized below.Shielding Materials SummaryNeutron RadiationLow mass number and high cross section (preferably hydrogenous material)for low energies. Water ranks high due to advantage of low cost, readymeans for removing heat. Good inelastic scattering properties (high energies). Iron is used due to thelarge change in neutron energy after collision but it has little effect onlower energy neutrons.Gamma RadiationHigh atomic mass number and high density are required to attenuate gradiation. Lead has advantage of ease of fabrication. The disadvantage oflead is its low melting point. Iron is used for higher and lower energies.Iron is selected based on structural, temperature, and economicconsiderations. Water can be used but requires large amounts becausewater is a poor absorber of gamma radiation. Concrete is a good gammaattenuator as a general shield material. Concrete is strong, inexpensive,and adaptable to different types of construction.Alpha and Beta RadiationNo particular shielding material is required to guard against alphas andbetas.Rev. 0Page 21MS-05
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