Lead shielding
Lead shielding refers to the use of lead to shield from radiation. Lead helps protect from radiation because of its high density with an atomic number of 82. Lead is effective at stopping gamma rays and x-rays. However lead does not stop neutron radiation.
Use
Lead is used as a shield in x-ray machines and nuclear reactors. It is often used by technicians who have to work with radiation, in such devices as lead aprons, thyroid shields and lead gloves. Lead aprons are often put on patients who are being given x-rays. Lead shielding protects from scatter radiation. Often modern military equipment uses lead shielding. Lead castles are structures composed of bricks made of lead. They are used during nuclear research and testing, and may protect a sample or people from radiation.
Alternatives
Radiation Shield Technologies (RST) has put forth a fabric called Demron to compete with lead in radiation shielding garments. Since its announcement in 2002 it has seen limited adoption.
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