Composition-driven X-ray shielding performance of locally sourced silicate ceramics for diagnostic energy applications

• Systematic evaluation of the X-ray attenuation properties of ten locally sourced silicate-based ceramics. • A direct positive relationship was observed between iron content and shielding performance. • The study establishes a fundamental framework for the development of silicate ceramics for radiation shielding. • The findings demonstrate the potential of these cost-effective materials for improved shielding applications. This study investigates the X-ray shielding properties of ten locally sourced silicate-based ceramics from Saudi Arabia. It presents a novel, systematic assessment of these previously uncharacterized materials, addressing the growing demand for sustainable, lead-free, and cost-effective radiation protection. For the first time, this research establishes a direct quantitative correlation between their elemental composition and X-ray shielding performance across the diagnostic energy range of 50 to 150 keV. The primary aim was to characterize the fundamental attenuation properties of these ceramics to establish a quantitative relationship between their elemental composition and shielding performance. The results reveal a clear connection between the weight percentage of high-atomic number elements (Fe and Ca) and attenuation effectiveness. The linear attenuation coefficients (LAC) at 50 keV ranged from 0.24 ± 0.002 cm −1 to 0.290 ± 0.003 cm −1 , indicating a 17.3% variation in performance attributable to compositional differences. Experimental findings were validated against theoretical predictions, revealing an average deviation of 26% at 50 keV, which decreased to less than 5% at energies above 80 keV. The best-performing sample achieved a radiation protection efficiency (RPE) of 86% and a half-value layer (HVL) of 2.37 cm at 50 keV. These ceramics represent a viable and cost-effective basis for developing optimized shielding materials. Their shielding performance can be predictably enhanced through compositional enrichment with iron or other high-atomic-number elements, improving radiation attenuation and potentially leading to even higher RPE values in practical applications.