Development of an Epoxy/Carbon Fiber Composite for Radiation Attenuation with a Dispersion of Micro Particles of Bismuth Trioxide (Bi2O3)

The objective of this research was the development of an epoxy/carbon fiber composite with bismuth trioxide (Bi2O3) dispersion in the polymeric matrix for application as a low-energy photon barrier and to determine the mass attenuation coefficient of this composite. Quantitative and experimental methodology was used for this research. The mass ratios of the bismuth oxide in the composite were approximately 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4. The Pantak/Seifert irradiator model Isovolt HS 160 was used as an X-radiation source. The photon energies were 48, 65, 82 and 118 keV, with radiation doses of 471, 1912, 92.6 and 74.2x10-3 mGy.min-1 respectively, with energies and radiation doses being typical of X-ray diagnostic radiography. At an energy of 118 keV, the dispersion of Bi2O3 in the polymeric matrix increased the mass attenuation coefficient from 0.15 cm2.g-1 (without dispersion) to 1.28 cm2.g-1 (39.13% by mass of Bi2O3). This is an increase of approximately 753%. At an energy of 82 keV, the percentage increase was approximately 582%. At an energy of 65 keV, there was an increase of 739% and for photons with an energy of 48 keV the percentage increase in the mass attenuation coefficient was 1262%. In conclusion, a composite epoxy/carbon fiber with bismuth oxide dispersion is an excellent option as compared to a lead plate. The composite studied can attenuate photon energy and does not present an acute or chronic danger to the environment or to health. Also, it is non-carcinogenic and does not cause reproductive toxicity, both being clear advantages over lead. Finally, it should be noted that composite applications could be radiological shields for the X-ray, aerospace industries, among others.