Preparation and characterization of γ-ray radiation shielding PbWO4/EPDM composite

A novel composites based on ethylene-propylene-diene monomer (EPDM) rubber for gamma shielding were prepared by using carbon blacks (CB) and ball milled PbWO4 (PWO) powder as fillers. The microstructure of ball milled PWO powder which has a uniform morphology in these composites was characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD). The mechanical and shielding tests were performed to determine mechanical and radiation attenuation properties, respectively. The results show these materials exhibit excellent mechanical and radiation-resistance properties.