Recent Advancements in Reinforced Polymer Metal Nanohybrids for Effective Radiation Shielding: A Short Review

Ionised radiation plays a crucial role in various fields, including diagnostic imaging, radiotherapy, industrial processes, and scientific research. With the increasing use of ionising radiation, there is a growing need for effective shielding to minimise harmful exposure. Traditionally, leadbased shields have been used; however, they pose significant health and environmental hazards, particularly due to lead dust exposure, which is a major concern for healthcare workers. Consequently, alternatives such as polymer-based metal nanohybrids are emerging as promising options for radiation protection. This paper reviews the latest research on EMI shielding using polymer-based metal nanohybrids, with a particular focus on their applications in radiation shielding. It examines the influence of polymer matrix materials and the effects of polymer and filler particle sizes on the attenuation of radiation, including X-rays, gamma rays, and microwaves. Key materials discussed polymers (such as PMMA, PVDF), nanostructures (e.g., Bi2O3, ZnO, Fe2O3), and hybrid nanostructures (e.g., PMMA/GO, PVDF/BaTiO2, WC, BaFe12O19, NiFe2O4). The paper explores their structure, properties, and advantages for radiation shielding. The shielding efficiency of these materials is assessed by using parameters such as the mass attenuation coefficient, linear attenuation coefficient, half-value layer, tenth-value layer, and mean free path. Compared to conventional shielding materials, polymer-based metal nanohybrids offer superior performance due to the unique properties of nanoparticles, including enhanced attenuation coefficients, lightweight, ease of fabrication, thermal stability, and electrical conductivity. These characteristics make them more efficient and environmentally friendly alternatives compared to traditional lead-based shielding.