Ulexite/HDPE-BiO/HDPE layered composites for neutron and gamma radiation shielding.

In this study, 5, 10, and 15 wt% ulexite (NaCaBO(ΟH)·5HO, hydrated sodium calcium borate hydroxide) and 15 wt %BiO filled high density polyethylene (HDPE) composite materials were fabricated through conventional melt-extrusion processing techniques in the form of a layered structure in order to absorb both neutron radiations and the secondary radiations resulting from neutron induced reactions. In the layered structure, HDPE was used to slow down neutrons, while ulexite and BiO were used to capture thermal neutrons and secondary gamma radiations, respectively. The properties of ulexite/HDPE and BiO/HDPE composites were investigated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA).

Determination of radioactivity level of water supply network in Trabzon province, Turkey.

In the present study, the radioactivity levels of water samples collected from the main water supply network in Trabzon province and districts and soil samples taken from the vicinity of the water network were measured. An Alphaguard-PQ2000 radon gas detector was used to determine the seasonal radon gas level in the water samples. An HPGe detector was used to determine the level of radioactivity in soil and water samples.

Radioactivity measurements and risk assessments of spa waters in some areas in Turkey.

The current study presents the results of the activity of radionuclides in spa waters, and evaluates their radiological influences on the population consuming these waters in the Central and Eastern Black Sea regions of Turkey. Since these waters are used for therapy and consumption purposes unconsciously, their radiological impact on the people was computed by taking into consideration the annual intake through ingestion of Ra, Th, K, Cs and Rn. The mean activities were estimated to be 11.