Investigation and optimisation of lead screen thickness for improving the radiographic image quality in High energy X-Ray exposure of Solid Rocket Motors

Abstract. The optimization of lead screen thickness plays a pivotal role in enhancing the intensity and clarity of radiographic images obtained from high-energy X-ray exposure, especially when inspecting rocket motors containing propellant. Characterisation of the flaws detected in propellant grain is very crucial as each defects can affects the ballistic performance , storage life and handling schemes to a greater extent.The research focuses on improving parameters such as optical density uniformity across X-ray films, with an emphasis on reducing scattered radiation in the Radiographic image while exposing the large metallic objects. A series of experiments were conducted, where films of varying quality were exposed to high-energy X-rays from source (Linear accelerator) passing through materials such as mild steel plates, aluminum sections, and solid propellant samples at different Source-to-Film Distances (SFD). The resulting radiographs were analyzed for generating optical density distribution profiles for further study. Through a series of experiments, we examine the interaction between high-energy X-rays, the propellant material, and the lead screen, determining the ideal lead screen thickness that maximizes image quality and intensification without compromising the efficiency of the cassette design. The study also focuses on to have the compact yet effecient size of cassette use in radiographic system for industrial and aerospace applications. The findings offer valuable insights into optimizing radiographic testing methods, improving imaging quality and enhancing the overall safety and performance evaluation processes of rocket motors.