Investigation of gamma-ray shielding properties of concrete containing different percentages of lead.

In this work, concrete mixed with different percentages of lead is used to study gamma-ray shielding properties. The transmitted fluxes of gamma-rays that were emitted from (137)Cs and (60)Co sources were detected by a NaI(Tl) detector and analyzed by a MCA analyzer. Then, linear attenuation coefficients (LAC) and compressive strength of concrete specimens were experimentally investigated. By comparing the obtained data from concrete specimens with and without lead, it was observed that, if the powder of lead to cement ratio of 90% by weight is added in the concrete mixture, the concrete can be used as a suitable shield against gamma rays.