Study the effect of dispersion of filler in polymer composite for radiation shielding

Good filler dispersion in a polymer resin is crucial for achieving performance. Main focus of this study is the effect of dispersion of various fillers in epoxy resin to produce radiation hardened plastic packaging which can be used as a shielding against a high frequency radiation attack. High‐frequency rays have tendency to intrude in the resin and polymer especially are quite vulnerable to be penetrated by high‐frequency rays which may create an early degradation of product. Hence, stabilizers are also used which can absorb the high‐frequency radiation and save the material from early degradation. However, particular fillers are also required that can uniformly disperse in the resin and create a film which can provide extra protection against high‐frequency radiation attack. Three types of compositions are prepared using epoxy/graphite, epoxy/lead, and epoxy/boron nitride nanopowder. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) images are used to study dispersion in resin. Small batches using gravity casting method at laboratory using compatibilizers are prepared to carry out experiments. Results of linear absorption coefficient carried out using Am–Be neutron source are also discussed in the paper. POLYM. COMPOS., 35:1263–1266, 2014. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers