Structure-property behavior of polyethylene nanocomposites containing Bi2O3 and WO3 as an eco-friendly additive for radiation shielding

A new polymer based on nanocomposites was prepared to examine its radiation-shielding properties for potential industrial applications. Bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) nanoparticles and flower tungsten oxide nanostructures (FL-WO3) was hydrothermal synthesized. The Bi2O3 nanoparticles and WO3 nanostructure formation were confirmed using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The Bi2O3 nanospheres had an average diameter of approximately 30-68 nm. The WO3 nanostructure and Bi2O3 nanoparticles were incorporated into low density polyethylene (LDPE) to fabricate a nanocomposite. The radiationshielding performance of different nanocomposites was investigated. The results showed that LDPE loaded with WO3, WO3/Bi2O3, and Bi2O3 displayed higher tensile strength and thermal stability than unloaded LDPE. The results showed that the LDPE loaded with 3% Bi2O3 performed better gamma attenuation at 662, 1173, and 1332 keV. Additionally, WO3, WO3/Bi2O3, and Bi2O3 as ecofriendly additive-reinforced LDPE materials have a gamma-ray-shielding performance. The results indicate that LDPE containing Bi2O3 have higher gamma-rayshielding properties than other nanocomposites.