Towards sustainable radiation shielding: A literature review of agricultural waste-enhanced concrete composites

The increasing demand for sustainable radiation shielding solutions has prompted a transition from traditional materials such as lead and cement-based concrete towards environmentally friendly alternatives. Despite their effectiveness in radiation shielding, traditional shielding concrete faces challenges such as toxicity, high cost and environmental degradation. This literature review examines the potential of agricultural waste materials (AWMs) as partial substitutes in cement-based concrete composites for radiation shielding applications. Agricultural residues such as rice husk, sugarcane bagasse and coconut shell exhibit pozzolanic properties and offer mechanical benefits, improved durability and enhanced radiation attenuation capabilities. The article examines the key physical and chemical properties of various AWMs, highlighting their potential to improve concrete strength and shielding performance against gamma and neutron radiation. In addition to mechanical and shielding characteristics, the environmental and economic ramifications of AWM reuse are evaluated, including reductions in carbon footprint and waste management benefits. The article also identifies challenges like standardization issues and the requirements for long-term durability data, highlighting how AWM-integrated concrete can be a feasible, cost-effective and sustainable solution for contemporary radiation shielding, supporting the objectives of the circular economy and green building.