Exploring Nuclear Radiation Shielding Capabilities of High-Entropy Carbides: A Study on Composition and Effectiveness

High-entropy carbides (HECs) are emerging as promising materials for shielding against gamma-ray and neutron radiation due to their unique structural and compositional properties. This study systematically evaluates the shielding capabilities of 12 carbide-reinforced high-entropy alloys (HEAs) composed of elements such as hafnium, niobium, titanium, zirconium, tungsten, tantalum, vanadium, and molybdenum. Various gamma-ray and neutron shielding parameters, including attenuation coefficients, shielding thicknesses, and neutron removal cross sections, were calculated using the Phy-X/PSD software.

The findings reveal a strong correlation between material density and shielding efficiency, with the highest density samples, particularly (Zr_0.2Hf_0.2Ta_0.2Mo_0.2W_0.2)C and (Ti_0.2Hf_0.2Nb_0.2Ta_0.2W_0.2)C, demonstrating superior gamma-ray attenuation. Additionally, neutron shielding performance was maximized in compositions containing high concentrations of heavy elements, with (Ti_0.2V_0.2Nb_0.2Ta_0.2W_0.2)C exhibiting the most effective neutron absorption properties.

The interactions of photons and charged particles with these materials were further examined through mass stopping power and projected range calculations for alpha particles, protons, and electrons. It can be concluded that HEC-based alloys, due to their high density, optimized composition, and superior radiation attenuation properties, could be strong candidates for advanced shielding applications in nuclear and aerospace environments.