Pages: 280-290

Authors: Sanja V. Knežević, Marija M. Ivanović, Snežana S. Nenadović, Milica M. Rajačić, Marijan Nečemer, Jelena Potočnik, and Miloš T. Nenadović

Abstract

This article focuses on the in-situ calibration of area radiation monitors by examining changes in The aim of this study was determination of radiological characterization of alkali-activated material with Sm₂O₃ and its polymerization products. Alkali-activated materials with 1 wt.% and 5 wt.% addition of Sm₂O₃ were synthesized and their natural radioactivity was determined. Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence showed changes in the phase composition, or the formation of stable compounds, at higher temperatures. All samples demonstrated good pozzolanic activity, while the percentage of Sm₂O₃ was slightly changed. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed that the obtained material has a very low carbon content making it environmentally friendly, due to its low carbon content. A detailed analysis of the oxygen peak indicates variations in the stoichiometry of the oxides, which may affect the changes of natural radioactivity. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed that with the increase in the temperature of the thermal treatment, the opening of the pores in the alkali-activated material occurs, as well as further propagation of reaction that increased porosity and crystallization. Radiological measurement confirmed that examined alkali-activated material is safe for usage and exploitation. It should be emphasized that the presence of artificial radionuclide cesium
¹³⁷Cs was not detected.

Key words: alkali-activated material, Sm₂O₃, gamma-ray spectrometry, energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy

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