Materials Used to Protect Against Radiation

There are numerous materials out there that are able to protect you against radiation. Essentially, any type of material can be used as protection as long as it’s thick enough. There are certain materials, like the ones mentioned in this article, that offer more protection than others because of the type of material, type of particle, and thickness. The entire purpose of protection is to reduce the intensity of the radiation depending on the thickness of the materials being used.

The thicker the material, the harder it is for radiation to penetrate the area being exposed. This is why lead shielding is such a popular type of protection used against radiation. Other than lead, there are a couple of other materials built to defend against radiation.

Lead

Lead is a chemical compound that is soft, easily malleable, and corrosion-resistant. The malleability allows this metal to be easily shaped into numerous protective equipment that can be used for lead shielding. These can come in the form of radiation garments such as aprons, vests, and skirts that can often be found in dental clinics and hospitals. Lead can also be shaped into larger equipment that is used in more heavy-duty areas. This refers to lead cabinets, lead containers, and even lead bricks.

As previously mentioned, lead is the most commonly used material because of its extreme thickness. Lead radiation shielding is often used in a variety of different applications such as radiation therapy, nuclear, and industrial protection. Lead is the most effective material throughout any type of radiation shielding.

Aluminum

Aluminum is another easy way to shield yourself from radiation. Although aluminum isn’t as strong as lead is, it can be used as a barrier against certain waves. Despite thickness playing some factor, the most important thing is not to have any holes exposed in the material being used, otherwise, radiation will be able to enter much more easily than before. Aluminum can be shaped into a screening or mesh to block out most forms of radiation.

Particles Do Matter

Depending on what type of radiation particles are being released, the materials will shift accordingly. For the most part, lead and aluminum are the best for blocking gamma and X-rays but are rather ineffective with other particles. Neutron particles will need a hydrogen-based material to offer any protection. Alpha and beta particles only require a small sheet of plastic for protection.

Canada Metal has a long list of products that can be used to protect against radiation. Lead is the most common material because of its thickness, corrosion resistance, and other unique properties. We’re a trusted provider and have the expertise to accomplish any type of radiation shielding imaginable. Give us a call today for an experience you can’t find anywhere else.