|
MarShield’s Plasti-Shield®: Advanced Borated Polyethylene for Reliable Neutron Shielding
November 12, 2025
Borated polyethylene has become a critical material for neutron shielding in both nuclear power and medical environments. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to moderate and absorb fast and thermal neutrons while remaining lightweight, durable, and cost-efficient—qualities that make it ideal for facilities requiring dependable radiation protection.
The Science Behind Boron’s Shielding Power
The element boron plays a central role in neutron shielding due to its exceptional neutron absorption characteristics. The boron-10 isotope possesses a remarkably high neutron capture cross-section (~3,840 barns), allowing it to efficiently absorb thermal neutrons. When boron interacts with a neutron, it initiates a reaction that converts the neutron into charged particles, which are easily stopped by surrounding materials. Unlike cadmium or other absorbers, this process results in minimal secondary gamma radiation, improving overall safety in shielding applications.
Plasti-Shield®: Engineered for Performance and Safety
MarShield’s Plasti-Shield® is a purpose-built neutron shielding material designed for environments where radiation control is essential. The product combines hydrogen-rich polyethylene with boron to effectively capture fast and thermal neutrons, offering superior performance compared to traditional shielding alternatives.
- Boron content: 5% by weight (available in 1% and 2% grades)
- Standard sheet size: 48” x 96” x 1” (160 lbs)
- Hydrogen content: Over 13% by volume
- Gamma dose reduction: Down to 0.42 MeV from neutron capture
- Specific gravity: 0.92
- Compliance: Meets MIL-P-23536A and EB2562E specifications
Plasti-Shield® sheets can be cut and shaped easily using standard woodworking tools, simplifying installation during both new construction and retrofit projects. Its uniform density and wide temperature tolerance ensure consistent performance across a range of industrial and medical applications.
Applications in Nuclear Energy
Available in multiple boron concentrations, Plasti-Shield® can be tailored for different neutron energy levels, helping engineers optimize shielding design. The material’s homogeneous composition and adherence to military-grade standards make it a reliable choice for:
- Reactor and containment shielding
- Research laboratory neutron protection
- Radioactive waste and spent fuel storage
- Transport containers and beam line facilities
Through its participation in the Canadians for CANDU initiative, MarShield supports the ongoing advancement of safe, reliable nuclear power in Canada, providing proven shielding solutions trusted across the energy sector.
Shielding Solutions for Medical and Research Facilities
In healthcare environments, neutron shielding materials must deliver robust protection while enabling efficient installation. Plasti-Shield® meets these demands in facilities across North America, supporting applications such as:
- Proton therapy centers
- Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT)
- Cyclotron and hot cell facilities for isotope production
- Neutron radiography and imaging
- Radiation therapy vaults for linear accelerators (Linac)
Its lightweight structure allows for easy handling in confined spaces, while the consistent material composition ensures reliable protection throughout shielded areas. Built to meet MIL-grade standards, Plasti-Shield® supports medical institutions in maintaining high safety and compliance levels.
Supporting Engineers and Designers with Proven Expertise
MarShield provides comprehensive support for radiation shielding projects, offering engineering assistance from design through installation. Each solution is supported by detailed technical data and certification, allowing project teams to specify and install neutron shielding with confidence.
For detailed specifications, guidance on borated polyethylene applications, or a project consultation, visit the original article at .
@MarShield_TM #MarShield_TM #radiationshielding #neutron #shielding
Company: 
MarShield - a division of The MarsMetal Company
Product: Nuclear Radiation Shielding
Source:
Tags: