Novel passive-adaptive exoskeleton-supported radiation protection equipment with enhanced shielding and reduced...

The study introduces novel passive-adaptive exoskeleton-supported radiation protection equipment (PAESRPE) designed to overcome the limitations of conventional radiation protection equipment (RPE). The PAESRPE employs an exoskeleton to transfer the weight of the RPE to the ground, and is supported by a modular configuration that allows for the selective integration of γ-ray or neutron shielding components, or combined protection against both radiation types. The test results demonstrated that PAESRPE achieved a γ-ray shielding ratio of 35.4 ± 1.6% (60Co), representing ~27% improvement compared with conventional RPE (60Co, with a shielding ratio of 8.3 ± 0.4%). For neutron radiation, PAESRPE achieved a neutron shielding attenuation of 50.3 ± 3.8% (252Cf), effectively addressing the challenge of high-energy neutron shielding protection for the RPE. PAESRPE achieved a maximum perceived weight reduction of over 80%. Practical trials conducted during nuclear power plant overhaul operations showed that PAESRPE reduced personnel radiation exposure by 32%, effectively enhancing on-site dose-control capabilities.