New radiation-reducing material introduced

Taiyo Kogyo Corp. and Hiraoka & Co. Ltd. recently announced the launch of a new radiation-reducing membrane material called “RaProTex™¹.” Expected applications include decontamination bags for soil and ash containing low-level radioactive substances, as tarps used to cover decontamination bags, tent structures for temporary storage of contaminated materials and as workplace dividers in areas with low-level radiation.

RaProTex, short for “Radiation Protection Textiles,” is composed of a polyester base fabric coated with radiation-shielding substances, including barium sulfate (similar to that used for protection from X-rays during abdominal exams), and vinyl chloride resin. RaProTex is more cost-efficient than conventional products that use lead and rare materials and has excellent flexibility and workability, allowing it to be compactly folded for ease of transport. It can be welded using ordinary welding machines used in membrane structures. It has a product life of approximately 10 years and is as weather-resistant as construction tents.

RaProTex is water-impermeable, making it useful for containing ash and soil contaminated with radioactive substances. The membrane also contains a rodent repellent, which is not harmful to humans, to prevent unwanted material outflow caused by rodent damage.

Three types of RaProTex are available (Types A, B and C) to meet a range of radiation shielding requirements. The highest performing membrane (2.1 mm thick and 4.5 kg/m² in weight) can block approximately 78% of X-rays and 2% of gamma rays². Further reduction of radiation is possible if multiple layers of the membrane are used.

1. Calculated based on radiation transmission rate for X-ray at tube voltage of 100kV.
2. Calculated based on radiation transmission rate for Cesium 137 radiation source (662keV).
3. The value for one sheet is calculated by dividing the measured value for 10 sheets by 10.

Source: Taiyo Kogyo Corp. and Hiraoka & Co. Ltd.