In the field of neutron radiation shielding, traditional shielding materials such as concrete and lead are bulky and subject to numerous application limitations. Featuring a special composite structure, boron-containing polyethylene sheets have become the preferred neutron shielding material for a wide range of scenarios.

Boron-containing polyethylene sheets are integrally compression-molded with ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) as the substrate and evenly blended boron carbide powder. Abundant hydrogen atoms inside polyethylene can rapidly moderate fast neutrons, while boron elements with high absorption cross-sections capture thermal neutrons. This dual-effect mechanism drastically attenuates neutron radiation and generates minimal secondary gamma rays during reactions, delivering superior shielding safety.

These sheets boast outstanding performance compatible with various harsh working conditions: excellent corrosion resistance, low water absorption, and stable structure free from deformation or cracking under high and low temperatures. Far lighter than concrete, they carry no risk of heavy metal contamination. The boron content can be customized as required, and additional modifications including flame retardancy and anti-static properties are available. Conventional mechanical processing such as cutting, drilling and milling is fully supported, with customizable dimensions and thicknesses for easy on-site splicing and assembly.

Boron-containing polyethylene sheets are widely adopted across radiation-related industries, including lining for spent fuel storage in nuclear power plants, shielding walls for university neutron physics laboratories, protective partitions for nuclear medical diagnosis and treatment, industrial non-destructive testing equipment, and inner liners of neutron security inspection devices at ports.

This article is compiled and edited by Henan Jinhang Engineering Plastic Co., Ltd. (www.upeplastic.cn), Editor-in-Charge: Jinhang. Our company specializes in the R&D and production of boron-containing polyethylene sheets. Reproduction is permitted with clear source attribution.