Investigation of Gamma Ray Buildup Factor for some Shielding Absorber

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to observe and understand the processes by which gamma rays are attenuated in passing through absorber, and the effects of shielding geometry. Gamma ray linear attenuation coefficient, mass attenuation coefficient, mean free path, half value layer and buildup factor were evaluated for different absorbers, by using 60Co source with energy value 1.332 MeV. The linear attenuation coefficient of the absorber such as aluminium was (0.1485 cm-1), whereas it was observed (0.4359 cm-1) for iron, and stainless steel was (0.463 cm-1). The obtained results have been compared to the other absorbers. As a result of that, linear attenuation coefficient and the mass attenuation coefficient are higher for stainless steel and better radiation shielding compared with other absorbers. The results of theoretical and experimental for all parameters are a good agreement. Moreover, it is found that the buildup factor increases with thickness of the absorber increasing.