Investigation of high-temperature-resistant rhenium–boron neutron shields by experimental studies and Monte Carlo simulations

In this study, novel rhenium–boron neutron-shielding high-temperature-resistant materials were designed. The considered samples, Re60–B40, Re58–B42, Re50–B50, and Re40–B60, with different concentrations of rhenium and boron were investigated to elucidate their neutron-shielding performances, and compare them with well-known neutron-shielding materials such as the 316LN quality nuclear steel. In addition to the experimental studies, Monte Carlo simulations were performed using the FLUKA and GEANT4 codes, where 4.5-MeV neutrons emitted by a 241Am–Be source were employed. Experimental equivalent dose rates, simulated track lengths, energy balances, and neutron mass absorption cross sections were discussed in detail.