The role of Ag2O incorporation in nuclear radiation shielding behaviors of the Li2O–Pb3O4–SiO2 glass system: A multi-step characterization study

We report the gamma-ray shielding properties of five different lithium silicate glasses based on the (40 − x) Li2O–10Pb3O4–50SiO2 nominal composition. Transmission factor values and some basic shielding parameters such as linear (µ) and mass attenuation coefficients (µ/ρ), half-value layer, tenth value layer, and mean free path (MFP) values of the investigated glass samples are determined in a large photon energy range. Using the G–P fitting method at various MFP values, the exposure buildup factor and energy absorption buildup factor values of the examined glasses are also calculated. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the S5 glass specimen, which exhibits the greatest Ag2O additive and density among the various glass samples, represents a favorable choice for the purpose of shielding against gamma radiation.