Tungsten shielding for medical radiography

Model No.: JDTG-TS-025

Brand: ZZJD

Place Of Origin: China

Material: Tungsten

Density: 18.10±0.15g/cm³

Color: Natural

Size: Support customization

Here’s a detailed technical and practical comparison between tungsten alloy and depleted uranium (DU) for radiation shielding applications:

Tungsten Alloy vs. Depleted Uranium Shielding: Key Differences

Property Tungsten Alloy (WNiFe/WCu) Depleted Uranium (DU) Winner

Density (g/cm³) 17.0–19.3 18.6–19.1 ≈ Tie

Attenuation Efficiency Slightly lower for high-energy gamma Superior for high-energy gamma/neutrons DU

Toxicity Non-toxic, ROHS-compliant Radioactive (alpha particles), requires licensing Tungsten

Corrosion Resistance Highly resistant (Ni/Fe/Cu matrix) Oxidizes over time (uranium oxide dust risk) Tungsten

Machinability Hard but machinable with carbide tools Softer, but toxic dust requires special handling DU (ease)

Cost $$$ (higher raw material cost) $$ (cheaper but regulated) DU

Regulations No restrictions ITAR-controlled, requires NRC/DOE permits Tungsten

Thermal Conductivity Moderate (WCu alloys improve heat dissipation) Poor Tungsten

Magnetic Properties Non-ferromagnetic (WNiFe) Ferromagnetic (issues in MRI/labs) Tungsten

Gamma Radiation Shielding Performance

<500 keV: Tungsten matches DU (e.g., Tc-99m, I-131). 

>1 MeV (Co-60, Cs-137): DU provides 5–10% better attenuation due to higher Z (92 vs. 74). 

Neutron Shielding: DU outperforms (uranium’s fissionable properties help absorb neutrons).

When to Choose Tungsten?

Medical Facilities (PET/CT, radiopharmacy) – Safe for staff/patients.

Commercial/Industrial – Avoid regulatory hurdles.

High-Temp/Chemical Exposure – Won’t degrade like DU.

When DU Might Be Preferred?

Military/Aerospace – Where maximum density is critical (e.g., armor, aircraft counterweights).

High-Energy Physics – Neutron-rich environments (research reactors).

Real-World Considerations

DU Alternatives: Tungsten is now mandated in many civilian applications (e.g., hospital shielding).

Environmental Impact: DU disposal is highly regulated; tungsten is recyclable.

Cost Comparison Example

Shielding Panel (100mm thick, 1m²) Tungsten Alloy Depleted Uranium

Material Cost ~$8,000 ~$3,000

Regulatory Compliance Costs $0 $5,000+ (permits, handling)

Lifetime Maintenance Low High (oxidation monitoring)

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