Studies of novel tungsten-embedded silicone rubber flexible materials for diagnostic x-ray protection
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: In this study, novel homogeneous and flexible tungsten-embedded silicone rubber samples were developed and tested as radiation shielding materials for diagnostic x-ray applications. Up to 83 wt% tungsten was incorporated into RTV-2 silicone rubber while maintaining flexibility. X-ray transmission experiments were conducted under narrow beam geometry conditions specified by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61331-1:2014 standard. The samples’ radiation attenuation ratios (RARs) were evaluated for tube voltages ranging from 50 kV to 110 kV in 10 kV increments. Among the tested samples, the composition with 83 wt% tungsten exhibited the highest radiation attenuation capability for all applied tube voltages. The samples’ lead equivalent thickness (PbE) values were determined for the same voltage range. PbE values of 83 wt% tungsten-embedded silicone rubber increased with the increasing applied tube voltages from 50 kV to 80 kV which is explained by K-edge of tungsten. There was a local remarkable decrease at 90 kV which K-edge of lead was taken place. Finally, PbE values of 0.25 mm, 0.35 mm, 0.5 mm, and 1 mm for 83 wt% tungsten-embedded silicone rubber were identified for the 50–110 kV range, as outlined in the third clause of the IEC 61331–3:2014 standard. A 2.1 mm thick 83 wt% tungsten-embedded silicone rubber sample was found to be equivalent to 0.5 mm PbE within the studied voltage range. In conclusion, this study comprehensively evaluates the preparation and characterization of tungsten-embedded silicone rubber materials for diagnostic x-ray applications.
Source: Physica Scripta
Institution: Bandırma Onyedi Eylül University
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W4416851063