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What Stops Radiation from X-Rays? Top Shielding Materials

By April 23, 2025July 4th, 2025No Comments

When it comes to radiation protection, the materials make all of the difference. But, what stops radiation from X-rays and how can patients and healthcare providers stay safe? In this article, we will explain some of the key principles around how radiation travels as well as highlight the best materials to prevent excessive radiation exposure.

At Barrier Technologies, we specialize in advanced radiation protection solutions designed to block harmful exposure without compromising mobility or comfort. Keep reading to find out more about what materials stop radiation and how our innovative products help keep you safe in high-exposure environments.

 

Why Shielding From X-Rays Matters

While the benefits of X-rays are undeniable, they don’t come without their own set of risks. The radiation from these X-rays can penetrate tissues, structures, organs, and more, posing significant health hazards if the correct shielding is not being used.

As ionizing radiation from X-rays interacts with biological tissues, it can damage DNA and increase the long-term risk of cancer and other health conditions. This is particularly dangerous for personnel in high-use environments, where accumulative exposure is an occupational concern. Without the adequate protection, even low-dose scatter radiation can contribute to measurable biological damage.

With this in mind, compliance with ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principles is essential. Furthermore, proper shielding infrastructure is a key defense against health risks associated with radiation exposure.

 

About X-Ray Radiation & How It Travels

X-Rays are a type of energy that can pass through materials, including the human body. This is why they are useful for medical imaging. As X-ray energy travels, it can either bounce off, pass through, or get absorbed by the material it hits. The thicker the material, the more likely it is to block or weaken the radiation associated with X-rays.

This is why materials such as lead, tungsten, and bismuth are used in radiation protection apparel and equipment. These materials stop or reduce harmful exposure to radiation as they absorb it before it reaches the body. Understanding how X-rays move helps explain what materials stop radiation, and why proper shielding is critical in any environment where X-rays are used.

 

What Stops Radiation? The Key Principles of Shielding

Time, distance, and shielding are the three core safety principles when it comes to protecting people from X-ray radiation. Here is a breakdown:

  • Time – The less time you’re exposed, the lower your risk
  • Distance – The further you are from the X-ray source, the safer you are
  • Shielding – It is important to use materials that can block or reduce radiation exposure

 

What Materials Stop Radiation?

Of the three principles listed above, shielding is among the most important, particularly when constant or close exposure can’t be avoided. Here are some of the most commonly used and effective materials that help block and reduce radiation from X-rays:

 

Lead

Known as the industry standard, lead is dense and can therefore absorb radiation before it reaches people. It is the most commonly used material used to stop X-ray radiation. Lead can be found in everything from protective aprons, vest, and mobile shields, as well as lead-lined walls in imaging rooms.

 

Tungsten

Tungsten is lighter but denser than lead. It is able to block the same amount of radiation using less material. It is commonly used by healthcare providers who have issues with their joints and back as its lighter weight causes less strain on the body.

This lead-free and non-toxic alternative is used predominantly where space and weight are a concern as it is more expensive. Tungsten is often used in:

  • Surgical shields
  • Smaller protective components
  • High-dose radiation areas
  • Some aprons and vests

 

Bismuth

Similarly to Tungsten, Bismuth was developed to reduce health and environmental risks thanks to its non-toxic properties. This light alternative to lead is often used in patient shields like thyroid collars, lightweight protective gear, and lead-free composites. It is often blended with other materials to increase its flexibility.

 

Polymer-Based Shields

More affordable, flexible, and lightweight, polymer-based shields often combine lead with other materials like plastic, rubber, or vinyl. Polymer-based materials are used in mobile barriers or curtain-like shields and they’re common in flexible setups like portable x-ray units.

 

Choosing the Right Material: Design and Selection Considerations

Not all radiation shielding materials work the same in every situation. Choosing the right one depends on several important factors, including how much radiation is being used, how often exposure occurs, and how the shielding will be applied.

When selecting a shielding material, consider:

  • Radiation level – Higher-energy X-rays require denser materials like lead or tungsten to ensure proper attenuation.
  • Exposure time – Staff exposed daily, even to scatter radiation, need dependable protection over the long term.
  • Mobility – Environments that need frequent rearranging benefit from lighter, modular options like composite panels or polymer barriers.
  • Cost – Lead is affordable and effective, while tungsten and bismuth, though more expensive, offer advantages in safety and ergonomics.
  • Regulatory standards – Materials must meet safety codes set by organizations such as the NRC, OSHA, or local health authorities.

Ultimately, the best material is one that balances protection, practicality, and compliance for your specific application.

 

Barrier Technologies’ Solutions for Stopping X-Ray Radiation

At Barrier Technologies, we pride ourselves in designing and manufacturing advanced shielding solutions that stop the harmful effects of radiation from X-rays. We combine proven science with practical design to create protective equipment that does not sacrifice comfort. Our products include but are not limited to:

If you’re looking for products engineered with superior performance against the harmful effects of ionizing radiation from X-rays, our comfortable and flexible solutions come with a broad range of customization options.

 

Final Thoughts on What Stops Radiation During X-Rays

While X-rays play a crucial role in healthcare, they do come with serious risks. Understanding what materials stop radiation can help you make safer, smarter choices. Whether you’re choosing lead for its strength, tungsten for its lightweight, or other materials for their flexibility, Barrier Technologies has you covered.

Are you ready to protect yourself and your teams from the harmful effects of radiation? Call Barrier Technologies today.