Shieldwerx SWX-227A

Borated Flexi-Panel Neutron Radiation Shielding

Features

Introduction

SWX-227A Borated Flexi-Panel is typically used for radiation shielding high-energy neutrons such as those produced by high-energy accelerators used in physics research and fusion test facilities. Neutrons absorbed by facility structural elements can produce high energy capture gammas and activate the components of concrete. SWX-227A is a flexible light-weight sheet material with a high concentration of boron that can be used to mitigate the impact of these high energy neutrons. The relatively high boron content of 9% (natural isotope distribution) produces an attenuation factor of 22 for thermal neutrons.

SWX-227A does have hydrogen that helps slow the fast neutrons and can reduce the overall radiation field. It is an inexpensive neutron radiation shielding material and is available in flexible sheets 0.275" thick x 48" x 48" (7 x 1219 x 1219 mm). The strong, rubber-like material is self-extinguishing when exposed to flame. Each sheet weighs only 27-lbs (12.3 kg) and is easily handled and installed by non-specialized personnel. This material can be cut to size using a pocket knife and can be bent in a radius as small as 1/2" (12.7mm). SWX-227A is easily attached to concrete or other wall materials using standard mounting techniques.
 

Specifications

Composition Data

Hydrogen atom density / cm³: 4.63 x 10²²

Natural isotope distribution: 99.98 % ¹H
Boron atom density / cm³: 5.8 x 10²¹
Natural isotope distribution: 19.6 % ¹⁰B and 80.4 % ¹¹B
Weight percent of all isotopes of boron: 9.0 %
Total Density: 1.16 g / cm³ (72.2 lbs. / ft³)

Radiation Properties

Macroscopic thermal neutron cross section: 4.41 (cm^-1)     

Gamma resistance: 10 x 10⁸ rad
Neutron resistance: 5.0 x 10¹⁷ n / cm2
 

Physical Properties

State: Rubbery Solid
Color: Off-white
Odor: Mild odor
Machinability: Poor, but easy to cut

Thermal Properties

Recommended Temperature Limit: 180 °F (82.2 °C)
 

Chemical Properties

Chemical Name & Synonyms: Borated Polyurethane
Trade Name & Synonyms: SWX-227A Borated Flexi-Panel
Chemical Family: Boron compound and polyurethane mixture
Solubility in Water: Negligible

Available Sizes

Technical Information

• SWX-227A Data Sheet

• Shieldwerx Radiation Shielding for Nuclear Power Plants

Other Shieldwerx Shielding Products

• Cadmium Sheets and Tubes

• Gamma Shielding - Polyethylene Based

• Gamma Shielding - Putty

• Neutron Activation Foils

• Neutron Shielding - Castable and Pre-Cast

• Neutron Shielding - Polyethylene Based

• Neutron Shielding - Putty

• Neutron Shielding - Silicone Based Flexible