Multilevel structured WO3 construction enhances X-ray shielding performance and wear comfort of radiation protection products

Radiation protection products with excellent radiation shielding properties and wear comfort are essential for individuals working in X-ray environments. Unfortunately, commercially available rubber composites and lead aprons cannot simultaneously meet the requirements for radiation protection safety and wear comfort. Here, a microfiber synthetic leather is proposed to solve this challenge. Hydrothermal synthesis of flower shaped WO 3 and investigation of its growth mechanism. Then, a titanate coupling agent is applied to synergistically modify with sodium carboxymethyl cellulose to construct hydrogen bonds and improve the interfacial compatibility between flower shaped WO 3 and waterborne polyurethane. Next, WO 3 is grown in-situ on microfiber nonwoven fabric by hydrothermal method. Finally, the waterborne polyurethane is coated onto the WO 3 in-situ grown microfiber nonwoven fabric. Monte Carlo simulations demonstrate that multilevel structures increase the probability of X-ray collisions with extranuclear electrons in materials, thereby enhancing X-ray shielding. In-situ growth of WO 3 resulted in an enhancement of the mechanical engagement points between microfiber nonwoven fabric and waterborne polyurethane, thereby improving their interfacial compatibility. The sample exhibits excellent durability. Importantly, the prepared samples exhibit x-ray shielding (55 %–90 %), light weight (0.835 g/cm 3 ), water vapor permeability (372 g/m 2 ·24h), and flexibility. These excellent properties demonstrate its potential for application in radiation protection, and bring broad prospects for the development of new radiation protection products.