Effect of different gamma-ray doses on the structural, optical, and radiation shielding features of the YBa₂Cu₃O_y ceramic oxide

Due to the high demand for the utilization of ionizing radiations in several vital fields, it is necessary to reduce their risks and protect humans and their surroundings through the use of protective materials with enhanced radiation attenuating capabilities. In this study, we report the synthesis, crystalline structure, optical, and resisting anti-radiation attributes of the pure superconducting ceramic oxide YBa₂Cu₃O_y (noted YBCO-123), successfully made by the simple solid-state reaction route. YBCO-123 was then subjected to irradiation with different doses of 0 kGy, 2.5 kGy, and 50 kGy. Variations in the lattice constants, cell volume, oxygen content, microstrain, and bandgap energy were noticed after the irradiation effect with different doses. The microstrain was found to decrease while the density was slightly enhanced with increasing gamma-ray doses. Furthermore, the gamma-ray doses showed a slight effect on the radiation shielding features of the YBCO-123 sample. The linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) at 20 keV showed an enhancement from 206 to 207 cm⁻¹ for 0 kGy and 50 kGy samples. The exposure buildup factor (EBF) and energy absorption buildup factor (EABF) are very low at lower energies and rise with rising penetration depth. The specific absorbed fraction of the energy (SAFE) parameter showed the ability of the YBCO-123 sample to absorb photons at low energies. It can be deduced that the YBCO offered good stability against gamma rays with a high capacity to absorb gamma-ray photons, making it a good candidate for use in the radiation shielding field.