Optimizing gamma radiation defence through strategic Fe3+- substitution in CaCu3Ti4O12

Abstract

Exposure to ionizing radiation including γ-rays and X-rays has detrimental effects on organisms, tissues, and living cells. Consequently, shielding against such radiation is of prime importance, especially when using different materials. This investigation examines the consequence of Fe³⁺- substitution on gamma-radiation shielding capability of quadruple perovskites, CaCu_3-xFe_2xTi_4-xO₁₂ (x=0.0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7). The shielding parameters, namely linear and mass attenuation coefficients, half and tenth value layers, relaxation length, fast neutron removal cross-section, effective and equivalent atomic numbers, energy absorption and exposure build-up factors, effective electron density, radiation protection efficiency and transmission factor have been determined. An adequate agreement between experimentally determined and theoretically calculated parameters using WinXCom software has been found. The change in shielding parameters with respect to Fe³⁺- substitution (x) and incoming photon energy has been corroborated in terms of structural and microstructural parameters and three distinct inelastic photon interaction mechanisms. Based on the magnitude of certain deciding parameters, it is concluded that pristine (x = 0.0) and compositions with low Fe-content (x = 0.1, 0.3) are suitable replacements for a wide range of other standard materials. They possess the capability to be utilized as protective materials.