Neutron absorption of Al-Si-Mg-B4C composite

Abstract

Abstract. Al-Si-Mg-B4C composites containing 2-8 wt% of B4C were prepared by stir casting technique. Homogenization treatment was carried out at temperatures of 540 o C for 4 houra and followed by ageing at 180 o C for 2 houra. Microstructure and phase identification were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) respectively. Neutron absorption study was investigated using neutron source Am/Be 241 . The result indicated that higher B4C content improved the neutron absorption property. Meanwhile homogeneity of the composite was increased by ageing processes. This composite is potential to be used as neutron shielding material especially for nuclear reactor application.