Characterisation and determination of the neutron transmission properties of sodium–calcium and sodium borates from different regions in Turkey

In this study, ulexite, probertite found within sodium–calcium borates and borax, and tincalconite found within sodium borates retrieved from different regions in Turkey are evaluated for their neutron irradiation performances. Characterisations were performed using XRD, FT-IR, Raman spectroscopy. B₂O₃ contents were determined experimentally, structural water contents and surface morphologies were determined using DTA/TG and SEM. Neutron transmission values and total macroscopic cross-sections were determined using ²³⁹Pu–Be source moderated in a howitzer. Neutron transmission values from lowest to highest were found to be as follows: secondary ulexite (K?rka), tincalconite (K?rka), ulexite (Kestelek), ulexite (K?rka), borax (K?rka), probertite (Kestelek) and ulexite (Bigadiç).