Abstract
Stainless steel has a robust microstructure that makes it an excellent material for shielding in a range of radiation applications. Thus, knowledge of backscattering photons and photon reflection coefficient is required to minimise radiation risks to passers-by and workers in close proximity to the radiation region. The stainless steel utilised in this research is composed of a blend of iron (74%), chromium (18%), and nickel (8%).
The FLUKA Monte Carlo algorithm was used to study the effect of photon reflection coefficients at various energies and for various stainless steel thicknesses.
The data was tabulated as a function of the angle of reflection. Moreover, the reflection coefficient was calculated as a function of different energies to determine the dose reduction factor compared to standard shielding concrete.
Regarding the reflection coefficient values, the saturation depth of the stainless steel is at a thickness of 2 cm. Therefore, there is no more increase in photon backscattering behind this thickness. Also, stainless steel showed better radiation shielding properties for less than 2.8 MeV incident energies.
•FLUKA code was used to study the effect of stainless steel thicknesses. .•Backscattering photons were calculated for stainless steel at reflection angles.•Backscattering photons were calculated for stainless steel at various energies.•The reflection coefficient heavily influences radiation shielding and dosimetry.•Examine the dose reduction factor for stainless steel against ordinary concrete.