Concrete Incorporating Palm Oil Fuel Ash and Polyethylene Terephthalate for Gamma-Ray Shielding
Nurain Najwa RAMLI, Siti Amira OTHMAN
Abstract. This study explores the incorporation of Palm Oil Fuel Ash (POFA) and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) into concrete to enhance its gamma-ray shielding capabilities while addressing environmental sustainability. POFA, a by-product of the palm oil industry, is rich in silica and exhibits excellent pozzolanic properties, strengthening the concrete matrix and improving its durability. PET, a widely available plastic waste, provides flexibility and enhances the overall mechanical properties of the concrete. The research examines various proportions of POFA and PET in concrete mixtures, focusing on their effects on density, compressive strength, water absorption, and radiation attenuation efficiency. The experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in the physical and mechanical properties of the modified concrete. The optimised mix (M3.3) achieved the highest density, compressive strength of 18.23 MPa, and a linear attenuation coefficient of 22.14, making it suitable for gamma-ray shielding. Furthermore, incorporating POFA and PET reduced porosity and improved durability, ensuring the material’s long-term performance in radiation-sensitive environments. The findings indicate that POFA-PET concrete offers a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to conventional shielding materials, particularly for medical and nuclear facilities, while contributing to effective waste management by utilising industrial and plastic waste.
Keywords
POFA, PET, Concrete, Gamma-Ray, Shielding
Published online 11/15/2026, 9 pages
Copyright © 2026 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA
Citation: Nurain Najwa RAMLI, Siti Amira OTHMAN, Concrete Incorporating Palm Oil Fuel Ash and Polyethylene Terephthalate for Gamma-Ray Shielding, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 74, pp 222-230, 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644904473-28
The article was published as article 28 of the book Composite Science and Technology
Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.
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