The Progress in the Development a New Point Kernel Shielding Code Based on the Iterative Scheme for Treating Stratified Shields

In this work, the progress in the development of a new point kernel code is illustrated. The code is focused on treating the stratified shields using the iterative scheme. The results of the simulation of the code on simple stratified shields cases are discussed here. The shields consist of thin-layers combinations of lead-water and iron-water. This work is restricted for the treatment of 1 MeV photons only. The results show good consistency and stability in the performance of the developed code, at least within the limits of this study. Even though the code implements very simple methodology for approaching the stratified shields, the shown results are satisfactory. The deviations off the MCNP5 results are mainly due to the buildup factor behavior through the iterative scheme process. This suggests an additional focus on the iterative scheme itself is needed. Many factors in the current scheme can be reconsidered, mainly; the use of Kalos' formula and the imposed characteristics of the equivalent layers. Other sources of error can be things such as the type of tally/detector used in the MCNP5 simulation and the type of the basic single-layer buildup factor used to produce the implemented fitting functions. The code is yet to be tested with other cases of material compositions and photon energies. The algorithm and basic theory also needs to be upgraded in order to produce less deviation