Design and Preparation of a (B4C+Gd)/316L Neutron Shielding Composite

doi:10.3901/JME.2025.09.112

Abstract

Abstract: Conventional neutron shielding materials such as B₄C/Al composite and boron aluminum alloy have poor structural mechanical properties and corrosion resistance, which are difficult to meet the requirements of large load capacity, neutron shielding, corrosion resistance and other functions. Based on this, 316L stainless steel is used as the substrate, and B₄C and Gd are used as the neutron shielding function enhancement. Introducing the multi-objective optimization method and directed energy deposition additive manufacturing (DED-AM) technology, a new (B₄C+Gd)/316L functional-structural integrated neutron shielding material design and preparation method is investigated. Firstly, the optimization model of shielding material composition parameters is established. The design of neutron shielding composites is obtained under decision variables and constraints such as neutron transmittance and secondary γ-ray production rate. Secondly, according to the optimal design results, (B₄C+Gd)/316L functional-structural integrated neutron shielding composites with different ratios are prepared by DED-AM method. Finally, the prepared composites are analyzed for microscopic morphology and mechanical properties. The results show that the grain of the composite is refined and (B₄C+Gd)/316L has superior yield strength and ultimate tensile strength compared to B₄C/Al with similar neutron shielding.

Key words: neutron shielding, (B₄C+Gd)/316L composite, additive manufacturing, multi-objective optimization

CLC Number:

TB34

QIAO Chunguang, WANG Zhonghua, YANG Tinggui, WANG Rongdong, JIANG Chao. Design and Preparation of a (B₄C+Gd)/316L Neutron Shielding Composite[J]. Journal of Mechanical Engineering, 2025, 61(9): 112-122.

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Design and Preparation of a (B₄C+Gd)/316L Neutron Shielding Composite

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