Simulation of Gamma Rays Attenuation Through Matters Using the Monte Carlo Program

Abstract

This research focuses on simulation of the radiation attenuation using a Monte Carlo program called GEANT4. In the simulation, properties and geometries of the shielding system including thickness and element of the shielding material can be varied. The radiation in gamma rays regime is considered to be emitted from a Cs-137 radioactive source. The number of gamma photons at specific energy of 661.7 keV is calculated to compare the ability of radiation attenuation for different shielding materials with variable thickness. In addition, the experimental investigation was performed for three materials, which are lead, aluminum and iron, by using a NaI(Tl) scintillation detector. Then, the XCOM database were calculated to compare the results with the simulation. Both XCOM and simulation data as well as the experimental results are agreed well to the theoretical suggestion. Consequently, the results from Monte Carlo simulation with program GEANT4 can be used to design the radiation shielding system for radioactive laboratories, particle accelerator institutes, radiotherapy area in hospitals, nuclear power plants, etc.