Researchers from Ateneo de Manila University and National University – Mall of Asia Campus have uncovered an innovative and sustainable use for volcanic ash: it can serve as an effective material for radiation shielding.
This discovery could revolutionize safety measures in hospitals, industrial sites, and nuclear facilities, where shielding against harmful radiation is critical.
Radiation shielding is essential in environments where ionizing radiation is used for beneficial purposes, such as medical treatments, structural inspections, and food sterilization. However, prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation can be dangerous, necessitating the use of protective materials. Traditional shielding materials like concrete and lead are effective but come with drawbacks, including high costs and environmental concerns. Volcanic ash, on the other hand, offers a lightweight, sustainable, and cost-effective alternative.
Turning Disaster Waste into a Resource
The inspiration for this research came in the wake of the 2020 eruption of Taal Volcano, which blanketed large areas of Luzon with ash, creating significant disposal challenges. Instead of treating the volcanic ash as waste, researchers Floyd Rey P. Plando, Myris V. Supnad, and Joel T. Maquiling explored its potential for construction applications. They focused on developing geopolymer mortar using Taal volcanic ash (TVA) and tested its physical and chemical properties.
Their findings revealed that the natural presence of iron-rich minerals in the ash gives it strong radiation attenuation properties. “Iron has greater interaction power because it contains more electrons.
In addition, it is a dense metal due to its heavy and tightly-packed structure. High-electron and denser material, such as TVA, has stronger efficiency in blocking hazardous X-rays and gamma rays,” explained Plando.
Maquiling added, “Moreover, the optimal blend of volcanic ash and aggregates results in effective photon (radiation) attenuation because of the resulting disorder (entropy) in granular matter microstructures.”
A Sustainable Solution for the Philippines
The Philippines, located in the tectonically active Pacific Ring of Fire, experiences frequent volcanic activity, resulting in abundant volcanic materials. This discovery not only provides a practical way to manage disaster waste but also enhances safety in critical areas by offering a locally sourced, eco-friendly alternative to traditional shielding materials.
Future Research and Applications
While the initial findings are promising, further studies are needed to refine the material’s durability and optimize its shielding performance. However, this breakthrough highlights the potential for transforming byproducts of natural disasters into life-saving innovations.
The use of volcanic ash for radiation shielding could have far-reaching implications, particularly in developing countries where access to expensive materials like lead is limited. By leveraging locally available resources, this innovation could improve safety standards in medical and industrial settings while addressing environmental and economic challenges.
A Step Toward Sustainable Innovation
This research demonstrates that even the aftermath of cataclysmic events like volcanic eruptions can lead to meaningful advancements. By repurposing volcanic ash, Filipino researchers have not only found a solution to a pressing environmental issue but also paved the way for safer, more sustainable practices in radiation shielding.
As the world continues to seek eco-friendly alternatives, this discovery serves as a reminder that nature’s challenges can often inspire its most ingenious solutions.
