High filler content acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene composites containing tungsten and bismuth oxides for effective lead-free x-ray radiation shielding

Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) based composites with a high content of tungsten and bismuth oxide were developed using an innovative process to obtain lead-free x-ray shielding materials. ABS was chosen for its good mechanical properties and its widespread availability as a recycled material. The composites underwent flexural tests, Shore D hardness tests, thermogravimetric and morphological analysis, and their x-ray attenuation properties were determined through numerical simulations and experimental measurements. Despite their high filler content (up to 75 wt%), the composites showed good filler dispersion within the polymeric matrix and maintained their mechanical properties. Across the investigated energy range (50-150 kV), the lead equivalence for x-ray shielding was achieved with composite plates containing 75 wt% of tungsten and bismuth oxide, at thickness values corresponding to a weight increase of only 29% and 36%, respectively, in comparison to lead. These findings pave the way for a new generation of lead-free x-ray shielding materials. Moreover, their mechanical properties, including flexibility for potential application in wearable personal protective equipment, can be tailored by adjusting the filler content.

Automated summary

An innovative process was used to develop ABS-based composites with a high content of tungsten and bismuth oxide for lead-free x-ray shielding materials. The composites showed good mechanical properties and filler dispersion, and their x-ray attenuation properties were comparable to lead. Furthermore, the mechanical properties of the composites can be tailored by adjusting the filler content.