Lightweight and flexible bismuth oxide composite with enhanced x‐ray shielding efficiency

Abstract Lead‐based shielding materials are commonly used to protect clinical personnel and patients from high energy x‐ray radiations. However, the toxicity and heavy weight of lead can result in serious health concerns and limit its applications. Alternatively, polymer composites are known as one of the potential candidates to shield high energy photons. Herein, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) nanocomposites are fabricated using different weight percentages (wt.%) of bismuth oxide (Bi 2 O 3 ) and multi walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) nanoparticles. The mechanical strength of nanocomposites is evaluated by Instron 5548 Micro Tester. Also, x‐ray shielding properties are characterized using continuous x‐ray energies from 60 to 90 keV. To study the effect of the nanocomposite structure on mechanical and shielding properties, multilayer nanocomposites in 2 to 5 layers are also fabricated with alternately PDMS/Bi 2 O 3 and PDMS/MWCNT layers and are characterized by the same methods. The 5‐layer nanocomposite improves the mechanical strength from 1.7 MPa in neat PDMS to 4.68 MPa. It is also capable of attenuating 89% of the scattered x‐rays generated at a tube potential of 60 keV, with a weight advantageous in comparison with pure lead.