Composite Tile for Particle Accelerators

As part of an independent research initiative, I co-led the conceptualization and prototyping of a radiation-shielding composite tile tailored for particle accelerators. Our aim was to explore novel, cost-effective alternatives to conventional heavy-metal shielding (like lead or tungsten), with a focus on using locally available materials, layered geometries, and nanostructure integration to reduce high-energy particle transmission.
This project emerged from the conceptual foundation we built during the Beamline for Schools (BL4S) competition and evolved into a standalone research paper, supported by simulation, materials analysis, and experimental prototyping.

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Composite Design, Simulation, and Materials Research

 

We began with a multi-phase design sprint, conducting in-depth literature reviews on particle interaction mechanisms (including Bremsstrahlung and pair production) and materials like boron carbide, paraffin, polyethylene, and iron-oxide-infused polymers.

To identify viable candidates, we shortlisted material composites based on:

• Mass attenuation coefficients (γ and neutron shielding effectiveness)

• Mechanical integrity and compressive resilience

• Affordability and local availability

We developed a tile structure comprising layered materials, each targeting specific radiation types—high-Z materials for gamma attenuation and hydrogen-rich polymers for neutron moderation.

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CAD Modeling and Geometry Optimization

 

Using Autodesk Fusion 360, I created a modular tile geometry with alternating material slots and interlocking edges to allow seamless tessellation in large shielding arrays.

Key CAD features included:

• Honeycomb-style inner layering for density control

• Modular inserts for material-swapping during testing

• Parametric variation for compressibility simulation

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Radiation Simulation and Interaction Testing

 

To model high-energy particle interactions, we ran simulations on FLUKA and GEANT4 platforms. These allowed us to visualize how gamma rays, electrons, and neutrons interacted with our multi-layer composite.

We extracted dose deposition data and used it to optimize layer thickness and material order. I handled:

• Mesh generation for composite geometry

• Energy spectrum testing at various incident angles

• Data validation using comparison with IAEA tables

{image: Screenshot of FLUKA/GEANT4 simulation showing energy attenuation in different tile materials}

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Experimental Prototyping and Material Fabrication

 

For physical prototyping, we needed access to specialized tools to form high-pressure, solid composite samples. This included:

• Hydraulic pellet pressing to compact powders into dense tiles

• Heat curing units for polymer-based layers

• Mold castings for ferrous-epoxy structures

I was directly involved in sourcing materials, designing mold jigs, and monitoring press operations.

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Testing Methodology and Validation

 

Although direct exposure to accelerator beams wasn’t feasible at this stage, we designed a comparative test methodology using:

• Low-energy X-ray fluorescence to test gamma absorption

• Neutron proxies from Am-Be sources (via collaboration)

• Backscatter analysis to determine partial shielding effectiveness

Data collected from these trials helped us calibrate future simulation parameters and validate physical performance against predictions.

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Project Documentation, Writing, and Future Application

 

I co-authored the research paper detailing our design rationale, simulation methodology, experimental fabrication, and testing outcomes. This included:

• Creating all figures and diagrams using Inkscape and Blender

• Data charts from FLUKA plotted in OriginLab

• Technical writing aligning with IEEE-style formatting

Our goal is to pitch the concept to institutions working in budget-constrained research settings (like LINAC-based medical centers or Tier-II nuclear labs), offering a cost-accessible shielding solution without compromising on safety.

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Conclusion

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This project pushed me to bridge the gap between high-energy physics, materials engineering, and simulation-based research. From CAD modeling and simulation workflows to hands-on material synthesis and strategic experimentation, the process sharpened my understanding of radiation-material interactions, multi-layer shielding mechanics, and end-to-end scientific research execution.