Influence of Inclusion Sb2O3/NiO Nanostructures on the Morphological, Microstructural, and Optical Characteristics of PVA Polymeric for Gamma-Ray Shielding Applications

Abstract

This work describes the steps to make PVA composites with varying amounts of Sb2O3 and NiO NPs using the solution casting process. The amounts used are 2.3, 4.6 and 6.9 wt.%. Field Emission-Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) showed that the Sb2O3 NPs, and NiO NPs were evenly distributed across the PVA polymer matrix. Fourier transform-infrared (FT-IR) study revealed that the Sb2O3 and NiO NPs embedded in the polymer matrix interacted with one another. FT-IR research shows that the PVA matrix-polymer and Sb2O3/NiO NPs physically interact with one another. As the ratio of Sb2O3 and NiO NPs in the PVA increased, the absorption coefficient, and refractive index, also increased. Moreover, a significant reduction of 25.83% in the allowed optical band gap was observed, suggesting improved electronic transition behavior. An indirect electron transition has occurred since the absorbance coefficient is less than 104 cm-1. Ultimately, the PVA/Sb2O3/NiO nanocomposites exhibit a high radiation shielding efficiency (RSE) of 18.84% for gamma rays, indicating its promising potential as a protective material. The Sb2O3/NiO combination provides an optimal compromise between environmental safety, mechanical flexibility, and radiation attenuation, rendering it a suitable option for non-toxic gamma-ray shielding. Enhancing nanoparticle loading and composite thickness may improve RSE, potentially exceeding that of traditional fillers.