The diagnostic X-ray protection characteristics of Ytong, an aerated concrete based building material

Ytong is a widely used building material. The X-ray attenuation properties of Ytong for broad beam geometry conditions and for tube potentials in the 50-140 kVp range are investigated. Comparisons with published data for concrete and other building materials are made. The results suggest that Ytong is not suitable for primary X-ray shielding in common diagnostic installations. However, walls of Ytong, typically 15-20 cm thick, may offer adequate protection in dental and mammography installations, as well as in low workload diagnostic installations as a secondary barrier.