Development of boron-infused basalt-fiber reinforced concrete for nuclear and radioactive waste management applications - Boron-Basalt fibers

Project summary

The aim of the project is to develop a novel composite material – fiber-reinforced concrete with basalt-boron fiber. It improves mechanical and enhances radiation-shielding properties, it could be used with various neutron sources, including nuclear and fusion reactors. This composite material increases substantially operation safety of radioactive sources and consequently better public acceptance of nuclear energy. Expected result include modelled of shielding properties for gamma-ray and neutron radiation; developed methodology for production of basalt-boron fiber for industrial conditions; performance testing of the fiber in laboratory conditions; mechanical performance testing of the fiber-reinforced concrete; experimental validation of shielding properties for neutron radiation. Development of this fiber-concrete is expected to have a considerable economic and environmental impact due to increased concrete durability and improved safety in operation of radioactive sources.