Lead Alternatives: Innovating the Radiation Shielding Industry - December 19, 2019

An area where material science is advancing the field of radiation shielding is in the development of non-lead shielding materials. Lead is used today because it's cost-effective, easy to work with, and most importantly has the ability to reduce gamma radiation.

One drawback of lead is that it is a toxic substance if ingested into the body. Given the toxicity, innovations are being made to produce thinner, more flexible and effective non-lead shielding solutions. Specifically, polymers are being utilized for their material properties. They are infused with tungsten and other metals to produce a new generation of shielding products.