High-performance PEEK composite materials research on 3D printing for neutron and photon radiation shielding

Abstract

With the rapid advancement of nuclear energy technology, addressing technical challenges in the field of radiation shielding, particularly achieving lightweight and efficient shielding against neutron and multiple radiation types, remains a formidable task. To address the aforementioned issues, this study investigates the 3D printing performance of polyether ether ketone (PEEK) composite materials for shielding against both neutron and photon multibeam radiation. High-content 3D printing filament is developed, with simultaneous shielding capabilities against neutron and photon radiation. This research successfully accomplishes the high-density 3D printing of PEEK shielding composites with increased concentrations of boron carbide(B₄C), tungsten(W), and both materials. The experimental results indicate that 3D printed specimens of B₄C/W/PEEK, a neutron and photon shielding composite material, exhibit excellent mechanical properties. Importantly, the radiation shielding composite 3D function parts achieves effective shielding against muitibeam radiation and weight reduction compared to traditional radiation shielding materials.