A polymer material developed at the University of Waterloo could replace lead in X-ray aprons, blocking harmful radiation while reducing weight by nearly 90%.
Key Details
- The polymer uses tungsten nanoparticles embedded in a silicone-based plastic.
- Nanoparticles are arranged in layered gradients to maintain flexibility.
- Rod-shaped nanoparticles were found most effective at blocking X-rays.
Background
Lead aprons cause back and neck pain in technicians who wear them daily. Lead dust from aprons poses health risks; no safe exposure level is recognized by the WHO. Alternatives tested included bismuth, gadolinium, barium, and other heavy metals.
Testing and Applications
- Tests were conducted at Grand River Hospital in Kitchener with Dr. Ernest Osei.
- The research was published in Materials Today Physics.
- Future work includes gamma ray shielding for nuclear energy and blocking electromagnetic waves from cellphones and Wi-Fi.