Estimate of the attenuation of γ rays by nanostructural materials

Differences in the attenuation of gamma rays by nanostructural materials as compared with ordinary materials are examined. The characteristic features of scattering by the structural units of a nanostructural material and the propagation of gamma rays are discussed on the basis of a solution of the transfer equation. The contribution of total surface reflection at internal boundaries of such a material to the increase in the absorption of gamma rays is estimated. The optimal size of structural units of a nanostructural material for which maximum gamma-ray absorption obtains is estimated to be 3.4-4.4 nm. Nanostructural materials provide more protection from gamma radiation than do ordinary materials.