KNUST and GHACEM Reaffirm Commitment to Radiation Shielding Research.
The Department of Physics at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and GHACEM LTD have reaffirmed their commitment to their long-standing research collaboration on using cement as a shielding material in radiological applications.
The partnership, which began in 2002, aims to explore the potential of cement as an alternative to lead for radiation shielding. According to Professor David Dotse Wemegah, Head of the Physics Department, the research seeks to enhance the shielding properties of GHACEM cement.
Professor Eric Clement Addison, Principal Investigator, highlighted the significance of the research, particularly in light of Ghana’s potential nuclear future. “Good shielding materials are crucial, and our research focuses on investigating the effectiveness of selected Non-Conventional Materials (NCMs) as additives for geological shielding,” he explained.
The research has received significant support from GHACEM, including the purchase of a $15,000 Barracuda dosimetry system for accurate radiation measurement. The company has also funded two MPhil students to conduct research on the project.
Ing. John Teye Ohipeni, Quality Manager at GHACEM, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to the research collaboration. The partners are set to discuss further steps, including increasing student sponsorship and expanding the research scope.