GB851479A - Improvements in or relating to the coating of cloth, plastic or other pliable material for the protection of personnel from radiation - Google Patents

Abstract

851,479. Radiation-absorbing materials. EVERGLADES Ltd. Nov. 6, 1957 [Sept. 22, 1956], No. 29036/56. Drawings to Specification. Class 39(4). [Also in Groups VII and VIII] A pliable screen, shield, or article of clothing for protection against X-rays, gamma rays, or like radiation comprises a composite sheet material having an inner layer containing a synthetic polymer and powdered lead or tungsten, or compounds thereof, and outer layers at least one of which contains a synthetic polymer free from radiation-screening material. In forming the sheet, a fabric, e.g. cotton or rayon, may be coated with a mixture of polyvinyl chloride and dioctyl phthalate ; a mixture of polyvinyl chloride, dioctyl phthalate, and lead powder is then applied in several coats, followed by two coats of a mixture of polyvinyl chloride, dioctyl phthalate, and a pigment. The colour of the pigment may indicate the degree of protection afforded by the sheet. The polymer mixtures also contain a small amount of a stabilizer, e.g. lead carbonate, lead sturate, or dibutyl tin dilaurate. Each coating may be heated to 110‹C. by means of hot air or infra-red radiation to semi-gel the coating ; the final sheet may be heated to about 180‹C. In place of cotton or rayon cloth, glass fibre, nylon, or "Terylene" (Registered Trade Mark) may be used ; these fibres should be treated first with a dispersion of plasticised polyvinyl chloride and epoxy-type resin in an organic medium to prevent peeling. The sheet material may be used to make aprons (see Group VII), helmets, or gloves.