Assessment of Gamma Radiation Shielding Properties of NBR Blends Filled With Slag‐Derived Nano‐Lead: Effects of Filler Concentration and High‐Dose Irradiation

ABSTRACT This study investigates the gamma‐radiation shielding and mechanical properties of nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR) composites reinforced with 0–0.6 Phr nano‐lead. Nano‐lead improved shielding efficiency by increasing the linear attenuation coefficient (μ) and reducing the half‐value layer (HVL) and mean free path (MFP). Mechanical tests demonstrated an improvement in tensile strength at 0.2 Phr nano‐lead and the highest abrasion resistance at 0.4 Phr, showing efficient nanoparticle reinforcement. FTIR research validated the chemical stability and compatibility of NBR and nano‐lead, whilst SEM imaging revealed homogeneous filler dispersion with little agglomeration at higher loadings. Notably, subjecting the composites to high gamma doses of up to 800 kGy increased tensile strength, indicating that radiation‐induced crosslinking improves mechanical qualities. These results demonstrate that nano‐lead/NBR composites have a synergistic combination of increased mechanical endurance, improved microstructure, and better gamma‐attenuation performance, making them ideal for flexible, high‐performance radiation shielding applications.