Nowadays X-ray examinations are commonly used. However, healthcare professionals and border crossing officers who perform X-ray scanning on a daily basis may suffer from serious health problems due to prolonged exposure to X-ray radiation. It is, therefore, important to have protective gear and shielding curtains for blocking or reducing radiation. However, such shielding products may pose potential danger if damaged due to lead poisoning. In this issue, Dr Fei Bin at the Institute of Textiles and Clothing introduces an advanced technology to manufacture X-ray shielding textiles.
What are the shortcomings of conventional X-ray protective gear in the market?
Conventional X-ray protective gear is made from rubber with lead in the interior. If the rubber outer layer is damaged, toxic lead pellets may be exposed, posing potential health and safety risks. Possible complications from lead poisoning include behavioural problems, learning disabilities, seizures, and even death.
How does your study help address these shortcomings?
We have identified the metal, tungsten, to replace lead in producing a novel X-ray shielding material. Tungsten is non-toxic, non-reactive and is one of the densest naturally occurring elements. It can be blended with plastics to produce a green material with better shielding attenuations than lead. Tungsten has been used in manufacturing healthcare equipment for years, and is proven to be safe and effective.
We combined polyurethane and tungsten to make polyurethane/tungsten (WPU) composite and subsequently textile through a number of pollution-free processes.
What are the benefits of the shielding textiles made from WPU composite?
Protective uniforms made from WPU composite are lighter, softer, more flexible and more efficient in radiation shielding than the conventional rubber ones that contain lead particles. The former has a longer life span of three years, while the latter normally lasts only two years. When the latter is damaged, lead can neither be recovered nor recycled. Yet, the former can be patched and fixed with a heat press repeatedly. Even for general disposal after repeated patching, the WPU textile would not contaminate the landfill and underground water.
What is the future development of this new composite?
Given the advantages of the WPU textile, it is expected to replace lead-rubber protective clothing in the market and be widely used in making protective products for healthcare professionals and officers at public safety checkpoints and nuclear power stations.