Borated polyethylene is the trusted choice for neutron shielding in both healthcare and nuclear power applications. Its unique ability to moderate and absorb fast and thermal neutrons, combined with its lightweight and cost-effective nature, makes it the preferred shielding material in environments where neutron protection is required.
Why Boron Is Effective in Nuclear Shielding
High Neutron Absorption Cross-Section:
Boron-10 isotope has a very high capture cross-section for thermal neutrons (~3,840 barns), making it extremely effective at absorbing them.
Reaction Mechanism:
When boron captures a neutron, it undergoes the reaction:
This converts the neutron into charged particles, which can be easily stopped by surrounding material.
Low Secondary Radiation:
The reaction produces minimal gamma radiation compared to other absorbers like cadmium.
What Makes Plasti-Shield® a Trusted Neutron Shielding Solution
MarShield’s Plasti-Shield® is a lightweight, durable, and cost-effective shielding material engineered for high-risk radiation environments. It combines hydrogen-rich polyethylene and boron to capture fast thermal neutrons. Unlike other absorbers such as cadmium, boron produces minimal gamma radiation during neutron capture, keeping secondary exposure low.
Key Specifications of Our Borated Polyethylene:
- 5% boron by weight (other grades available: 1% and 2%)
- Standard sheet size: 48” x 96” x 1” (160 lbs)
- Hydrogen content: Over 13% by volume
- Reduces gamma dose from neutron capture to just 0.42 MeV
- Specific gravity: 0.92
- Rated to: MIL-P-23536A and EB2562E specifications
Plasti-Shield® is easy to cut into precise shapes and install using common woodworking tools, allowing for quick integration into new construction or retrofit projects. Its consistent density and wide temperature durability make it suitable for a variety of shielding requirements.
Borated Polyethylene Uses in Nuclear Energy
Available in multiple boron concentrations, Plasti-Shield® can be configured for varying neutron energy levels, allowing nuclear engineers to optimize protection for each site. Its homogeneous structure, robust construction, and compliance with MIL-P-23536A standards make it a dependable choice for nuclear shielding in the following:
- Reactor and containment shielding
- Neutron shielding in research laboratories
- Radioactive waste and spent fuel storage
- Transport containers and neutron beam line facilities
As a Canadians for CANDU Ambassador, MarShield is proud to support Canada’s leadership in safe, reliable nuclear energy while providing shielding solutions trusted in power generation and research environments. View our certified nuclear capabilities here.
Easy-to-Install Shielding for High-Use Medical Facilities
In clinical environment, shielding materials must protect patients, staff, and equipment while minimizing disruption during installation. Plasti-Shield® is used in healthcare facilities throughout North America to meet these needs, offering superior performance and compliance with stringent safety regulations. Uses include:
- Proton Therapy Centers
- Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT)
- Cyclotron Facilities such as Hot Cells and Glove Boxes for Radioisotope Production
- Diagnostic imaging such as Neutron Radiography or Imaging
- Radiation therapy facilities such as Linear Accelerator (Linac Vault)
Its lightweight construction makes it easy to handle in tight clinical spaces, while its consistent composition ensures uniform protection across all shielded areas. With proven reliability and verified compliance with MIL-grade standards, Plasti-Shield® helps healthcare organizations maintain safe, uninterrupted operations.
Spec and Install Radiation Shielding Confidently
MarShield works with you as a partner to deliver high-performance shielding designed to meet your exact specifications. Our engineering team provides support from initial planning through to installation, ensuring a seamless fit for your environment. Every solution is backed by detailed testing data and certifications so you can move forward with full confidence in the protection it provides.
Talk to Our Shielding Experts Today
Don’t risk compliance or safety. Contact us for a free consultation or request a quote for your next project. We’ll help you find the right shielding for your exact environment, including guidance on specifying borated polyethylene where neutron protection is required.