A comprehensive study of the antibacterial and shielding properties of micro and nano-EPVC lead-free shields

Abstract

Lead-composites products are usable materials for the personal protection of the patient from x-ray during radiation operations. Nevertheless, lead has high toxicity and environmental disadvantages. This research aims at the preparation of flexible, lead-free, and antibacterial composites for protection against x-ray radiation. At first, nanoparticles of molybdenum trioxide (MoO3), copper oxide (CuO), and tin (IV) oxide (SnO2) were synthesized with hydrothermal and sol-gel methods. Six types of composites containing the 50% Wt of various mixtures of nano and micro particles of MoO3, CuO, and SnO2 in the emulsion of polyvinylchloride were prepared. Then, the morphological characteristics and size distribution of the samples were determined by the dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis, and the bond between the matrix and the filler was investigated by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Also, the antibacterial effect of the composites and X-ray diffraction (XRD) of nanoparticles were studied. Furthermore, the x-ray attenuation coefficient was measured in 40, 80, and 120 kVp. Indeed, the mass attenuation coefficients and 0.25 mm lead equivalent thickness were calculated for all samples. The results indicated that the nanocomposites show better attenuation than the other composites in all the energies. The composites containing MoO3 and CuO also proved to have better mass attenuation coefficients than the others. Considering the equivalent thickness for 0.25 mm of lead in high and low energy, the composites containing all the three metal oxides can be considered suitable for attenuation. Also, the composites containing CuO can provide antibacterial properties.