Structure-property behavior of polyethylene nanocomposites containing Bi2O3 and WO3 as an eco-friendly additive for radiation shielding

Abstract

A new polymer based on nanocomposites was prepared to examine its radiation-shielding properties for potential industrial applications. Bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) nanoparticles and flower tungsten oxide nanostructures (FL-WO3) was hydrothermal synthesized. The Bi2O3 nanoparticles and WO3 nanostructure formation were confirmed using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The Bi2O3 nanospheres had an average diameter of approximately 30–68 nm. The WO3 nanostructure and Bi2O3 nanoparticles were incorporated into low density polyethylene (LDPE) to fabricate a nanocomposite. The radiation-shielding performance of different nanocomposites was investigated. The results showed that LDPE loaded with WO3, WO3/Bi2O3, and Bi2O3 displayed higher tensile strength and thermal stability than unloaded LDPE. The results showed that the LDPE loaded with 3% Bi2O3 performed better gamma attenuation at 662, 1173, and 1332 keV. Additionally, WO3, WO3/Bi2O3, and Bi2O3 as ecofriendly additive-reinforced LDPE materials have a gamma-ray-shielding performance. The results indicate that LDPE containing Bi2O3 have higher gamma-ray-shielding properties than other nanocomposites.