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

Abstract

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.