JOURNAL ARTICLE

Evaluating lead-free alternatives for radiation shielding in diagnostic radiology: a case study from a tertiary general hospital in Korea.

  • Published In: Radiation Protection Dosimetry, 2024, v. 200, n. 19. P. 1892 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Kim, Eunhye; Kim, Byeungeun; Han, Taeho; Kim, Jungmin; Jeong, Hoiwoun; Chung, Sookyung; Choi, Harim 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on evaluating eco-friendly alternatives to lead for radiation shielding in diagnostic radiography departments, specifically using lead-free boards composed mainly of calcium sulfate and barium sulfate. Due to the increasing use of diagnostic radiography equipment in South Korea, appropriate radiation shielding thicknesses were calculated based on patient volume and device type at a tertiary hospital, employing a program developed from the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements (NCRP) Report No. 147. Results indicate that lead-free boards require significantly greater thickness than lead to achieve equivalent protection, with thicknesses varying by radiography room type—for example, 37.5 mm for primary shielding in chest radiography rooms versus 2.5 mm of lead. The study highlights the environmental and health concerns associated with lead, advocating for the adoption of lead-free materials and tailored shielding designs to optimize safety and sustainability in medical facilities.

Additional Information

  • Source:Radiation Protection Dosimetry. 2024/11, Vol. 200, Issue 19, p1892
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Chemistry
  • Publication Date:2024
  • ISSN:01448420
  • DOI:10.1093/rpd/ncae193
  • Accession Number:180950185
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