An overview of radiation exposure effects on concrete in nuclear power plants

Main Article Content

DOI

Karol Skiba

kskiba@agh.edu.pl

https://orcid.org/0009-0001-6303-3825
Roman Kinasz

rkinash@agh.edu.pl

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6715-9583

Abstract

This review summarizes the effects of radiation exposure on the properties of concrete, with a focus on the impacts on compressive and tensile strength, elastic modulus, weight loss, and dimensional changes. Ionising radiation, including neutron exposure, can significantly alter the mechanical and physical properties of concrete used in nuclear energy facilities. Recent advancements in developing ultra-high-performance concrete (UHPC) and radiation shielding concrete with heavy natural aggregates offer promising alternatives for radiation shielding. AI-driven models can support this by predicting material performance under irradiation.

Keywords:

radiation, neutron exposure, concrete properties, nuclear energy facility, concrete biological shield

References

Article Details

Skiba, K. and Kinasz, R. (2025) “An overview of radiation exposure effects on concrete in nuclear power plants”, Budownictwo i Architektura, 24(2), pp. 095–110. doi: 10.35784/bud-arch.6888.
Author Biographies

Karol Skiba, Doctoral School; AGH University of Krakow;

 

 

 

Roman Kinasz, Department of Civil Engineering and Resource Management; AGH University of Krakow;