Radiation Transport Simulation for Plasterboard Containing Copper Smelter Slag

Abstract

The development of new applications for copper smelter slag is important for the maintaining and progression of the copper industry. Gypsum, a by–product of copper smelting as well as copper slag, is widely used as a raw material for plasterboard. The preparation method of the composite of a copper slag with gypsum was studied and the mechanical strength of the composite was evaluated. The composite of copper slag and gypsum was successfully prepared and its mechanical strength was higher than that of the original plasterboard. The ability of the composites to shield against radiation was evaluated by Monte Carlo simulations on X–ray radiation transport. As a result, it was found that the composite plasterboard has a possibility to shield against radiation.