Nontoxic flexible PVC nanocomposites with Ta2O5 and Bi2O3 nanoparticles for shielding diagnostic X-rays

Plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) composites were prepared with tantalum oxide V (Ta2O5) and/or bismuth oxide III (Bi2O3) nanoparticles (NPs) at different concentrations and further cross-linked with a dose of 75 kGy of gamma rays. The materials obtained are light, flexible and nontoxic, to be used as radiation attenuators in the medical area for replacing the traditional lead which is toxic and dense. Mechanical tests through mechanical dynamic analysis (DMA) show an enhanced tenacity for composites and lightness, according to density measurements. By means of scanning electron microscope images (SEM), an adequate dispersion of the nanoparticles (NPs) was observed. The X-ray attenuation property was evaluated at radiodiagnosis energies (50–129 kV) using a conventional X-ray equipment, observing values of mass attenuation coefficients greater than those of lead, when PVC composites were loaded with 50 wt percent (% wt) of a combination of Ta2O5 and Bi2O3 NPs. Half and tenth value layers of 0.77 and 2.20 mm respectively, for 129 kV X-Rays were also obtained. Non-toxicity of the composites was observed by means of a cell viability test. Therefore, the investigated materials are promising for the fabrication of medical diagnostic X-ray shielding attachments. •Plasticized PVC composites with Bi2O3 and/or Ta2O5 nanoparticles were prepared.•Gamma crosslinking of composites at 75 kGy.•Radiation shielding properties of the composites were investigated for X-rays.•Cell viability tests for composites non-toxicity.•Enhanced tenacity, well dispersed composites and convenient HVL and TVL values.