Introduction of nanoparticles and suitable polymer substrate for production of protective coatings against X-ray radiation

• Published in: Journal of space safety engineering 2023-09, Vol.10 (3), p.267-275
• Main Authors: Teymoori, Maryam, Pourshamsian, Khalil
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bi2O3 nanoparticles; Carbon nanotubes; Low density polyethylene (LDPE); Nanocomposite; Sheet; X-rays radiation attenuation; ZrO2 nanoparticles
• ISSN: 2468-8967; 2468-8967
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jsse.2023.04.002

•Green synthesis of nanoparticles.•Use of less toxic metals instead of lead toxic metal in the coating structure against X-rays.•Use of Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) in the production of composites and nanocomposites. This polymer is cheap and available and its use is economically justified. The use of X-rays in CT-scan imaging in the treatment stages of patients is inevitable, but there is still a lack of suitable coverings in order to eliminate the risk of this radiation coming into contact with humans and its dangerous consequences. In this study, at first, bismuth and zirconia nanoparticles were synthesized using olive tree leaves. The structure of the synthesized nanoparticles was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Then seven composites were prepared using an twin screw extruder machine. The output sheets had a thickness of 1 mm. Structural properties such as surface morphology, density of prepared composites, mechanical properties of Young's modulus, thermal gravimetric analysis and retention of loaded particles after three times washing were investigated. The sheets were cut into 10 cm2 dimensions and their X-ray attenuation ability was investigated. The results indicate that all sheets filled with bismuth and zirconia particles and nanoparticles have more X-ray attenuation than pure polymer. Among the prepared sheets, composites LDPE (77%) + Bi2O3 (20%) +MWCNTs (3%), LDPE (80%) + Bi2O3 (20%), and LDPE (77%) + Bi2O3 (10%) + ZrO2 (10%) + MWCNTs (3%) in order showed the highest X-ray attenuation effect and are competitive with standard samples. Carbon nanotubes showed a synergistic effect in X-ray attenuation. [Display omitted]