방호시설에 적용 가능한 경량·다층 방사선 차폐 복합소재의 이론적 성능 분석 = Theoretical Performance Analysis of Lightweight Multi-layer Radiation Shielding Composites for Protective Facilities

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Addressing the operational limitations of conventional lead-based shielding—specifically its excessive weight and toxicity—in the context of asymmetric nuclear threats, this study presents a theoretical performance analysis of polymer-based composite materials as lightweight, lead-free alternatives. We evaluated the radiation attenuation properties of epoxy resin composites reinforced with 50 wt% fillers, including Bismuth Oxide (Bi2O3), Boron Carbide (B4C), Barium Sulfate (BaSO4), Gadolinium Oxide (Gd2O3), and Tungsten Oxide (WO3), by utilizing mass attenuation coefficients from the NIST XCOM database to calculate Half Value Layer (HVL) and Tenth Value Layer (TVL) at 60 keV. The results indicate that the epoxy/Bi2O3 composite exhibits an HVL of 0.1537 cm and a TVL of 0.5104 cm; while this represents a 20–40% increase in required thickness compared to pure lead, the composite offers critical advantages in non-toxicity and reduced density. Furthermore, BaSO₄ composites demonstrated suitability for diagnostic X-ray shielding (HVL 0.1723 cm), while B4C composites showed theoretical promise for neutron moderation despite a higher HVL for gamma rays. These findings suggest that polymer composites are viable candidates for applications such as personal protective equipment and mobile facilities, warranting further experimental validation to confirm their practical efficacy in radiologically contaminated environments.