Abstract

The present study deals with evaluation of gamma shielding ability and chemical stability of the polyester
(PE)-based polymer composites filled with bismuth oxide (0, 10, 30, and 50 wt.%), fabricated by open mould
cast technique. The gamma shielding ability of the composites was evaluated using a gamma ray spectrometer
for 127 keV gamma rays. As the filler concentration increases, the attenuation coefficient is found to increase
while the half value layer thickness decreases which is the essential requirement for practical application of a
material as a shielding material. The chemical stability of the composites was evaluated as per ASTM standards.
Accordingly, the samples were immersed in distilled water, 30% H2SO4 and 10% NaOH for 120 days. The results
reveal that the percentage weight gain in the pristine sample and the filled composites is almost <5%. Thus, the
composites exhibit good stability toward, acid and water medium when compared to basic medium. Hence, the
PE-based polymer composites are quite appreciable in terms of chemical stability and gamma shielding ability.