Influence of Parameters and Performance Evaluation of 3D-Printed Tungsten Mixed Filament Shields

Abstract

Currently, protective clothing used in clinical field is the most representative example of efforts to reduce radiation exposure to radiation workers. However, lead is classified as a substance harmful to the human body that can cause lead poisoning. Therefore, research on the development of lead-free radiation shielding bodies is being conducted. In this study, the shielding body was manufactured by changing the size, layer, and height of the nozzle, using a 90.7% pure tungsten filament, a 3D printer material, and we compared its performance with existing protection tools. Our findings revealed that the shielding rate of the mixed tungsten filament was higher than that of the existing protective tools, confirming its potency to replace lead as the most protective material in clinical field.

Keywords

• 3D printer
• filament
• shield
• nozzle
• X-rays
• additive manufacturing