An experimental investigation on structural, mechanical and physical properties of Strontium–Silicon Borate glass system through Bismuth-Aluminum substitution

This study aimed to fabricate a high-density glass sample with superior physical, structural and mechanical properties that can be used in medical and industrial radiation facilities. For the chief purpose of originating a translucent radiation shielding with remarkable mechanical properties, a glass system of a heavy metal oxide alumino-borosilicate glass of composition (5-x)Al2O3–50SrO–25B2O3–20SiO2–xBi2O3 (0≤ x ≤ 5 wt%) was fabricated by traditional melt-quenching technique. XRD curves presented the disappearance of regular sharp lines, affirming the glassy nature of the glass system. Additionally, the determination of experimentally elastic moduli of the translucent glasses showed their good rigidity, along with good elastic constants. The comprehensive analysis of experimentally determined γ-radiation shielding parameters for all the glasses such as linear attenuation coefficient (μ) and mass attenuation coefficient (μm) have been evaluated, and derived μ amounts are in good compliance with deduced FLUKA codes respective μ outcomes. Next, by applying μ outputs, T1/2, and λ were estimated. All glasses possess exemplary absorption ability for the lower energy photons as authenticated by radiation protection efficiency (RPE). In all inspected glasses, comparatively higher density (4.115 g/cm3), greater μ, and RPE, and the minimum T1/2, and λ values were reported for superior Al–Bi4 glass sample. •This study aimed to fabricate a high-density Strontium–Silicon Borate glass sample.•Physical, structural and mechanical properties were determined.•Gamma-ray attenuation properties were experimentally measured.•Experimental Radiation Protection Efficiency (RPE) was determined.•Al–Bi4 glass sample was reported with superior material properties.