5. Properties of radiation protection concrete

5.1 Attenuation properties

The attenuation of radiation by concrete is the result of its interaction with its constituent atoms. For a given thickness of material, the extent of this attenuation therefore depends closely on the chemical composition of the medium through which it passes, and is all the more sensitive when "light", "intermediate" and "heavy" elements coexist. As the content of specific attenuating elements in natural aggregates can vary enormously, the values of the coefficients for the different types of concrete are given for guidance only.

Given the importance of radiation protection, attenuation calculations must always be based on the actual characteristics of the concrete.