WS2/bioactive glass composites: Fabrication, structural, mechanical and radiation attenuation properties

Ionizing radiation interaction might occur during diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy procedures. It has been reported that gamma-ray radiation can damage the living cells through the energy transfer. Therefore, investigation the ionization radiation attenuation properties of biomaterials have a crucial importance. In the current study, tungsten disulphide (WS2) nanopowder-containing borate-based bioactive glass composites were prepared. Their physical, structural, mechanical and ionization radiation attenuation properties were investigated in detail. Monte Carlo simulations and radiation attenuation properties were studied through MCNPX and Phy-X/ PSD. Results showed that sintering performed at 575 degrees C for 1 h in air atmosphere caused formation of some tungsten trioxide in the structure. Addition of WS2 nanopowders increased the bulk density and improved the mechanical properties of the prepared bioactive glass composites. Simulation studies revealed the influence of WS2 content on reduction the build-up factors and enhancement of the photon attenuation ability for all the considered photon energies.