Investigation of gamma radiation shielding and compressive strength properties of concrete containing scale and granulated lead-zinc slag wastes

This paper summarizes the results of investigations of hybrid concrete containing scale and granulated lead-zinc slag wastes as substitutes for sand. Specifically, scale and granulated lead-zinc slag wastes are completely substituted for natural sand in concrete. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of these waste materials on gamma radiation shielding and on the compressive strength properties of concrete. The linear attenuation coefficient (μ, cm−1) and compressive strength of the samples were measured experimentally and calculated, and the experimental values were subsequently compared with those of conventional concrete. The results clearly showed that hybrid scale waste/granulated lead-zinc slag waste concrete (Sc/Glzs-C) has better radiation shielding and compressive strength properties than conventional concrete. An additional objective of this study was to calculate the thickness of the hybrid concrete shield to be used instead of conventional concrete. The results showed that the produced concrete demonstrates better radiation attenuation properties with thinner thickness compared to conventional concrete. As a result, the new concrete containing scale waste and granulated lead-zinc slag waste is suitable for gamma radiation attenuation.