Radioactive materials emit radiation, which can be from different types—particularly gamma or neutron radiations, which are penetrant radiations. Systems to transport or store radioactive material include a shielding material, which is interposed between the source of radiation and persons or environment, in order to absorb radiation and thereby reduce radiation exposure. After explaining the regulatory dose rate limits, this chapter presents the basis of shielding design and safety analysis, some typical shielding materials used by the industry, and the methods used to justify shielding performance in the long term in the case of extended storage periods.
Keywords
Dose-rate limit; Radiation protection; Shielding