Total photon attenuation coefficients in some rare earth elements using selective excitation method

•Total mass attenuation coefficients were measured for La, Nd, Sm, Gd and Dy.•Measured energy is 30–53 keV.•Accurate knowledge of attenuation coefficients is useful for shielding purpose.•Deviations at energies above K edge support the EXAFS effect.

The total mass attenuation coefficients were measured in the elements La, Nd, Sm, Gd and Dy belonging to rare earth region in the energy range 30–55 keV by employing the selective excitation method. This method facilitates selection of excitation energies near the K edge. The present experimental results were compared with the theoretical values due to Chantler and XCOM.