Core Materials
Our core material selection offers radiologists and medical staff the protection they need to minimize the risk of exposure. Specially designed to efficiently attenuate portions of the photon spectrum, our core materials counteract any gaps in protection, thereby offering practitioners a more comprehensive range of coverage. This is achieved in part by eliminating an overreliance on individual radiation protection elements in the core material. Created with comprehensive protection in mind, our core materials use an appropriate elemental balance. Doing so provides the clinician with increased protection and addresses K-edge concerns.
Our core materials are composed of high-grade elements that are conducive to minimizing the risk of radiation exposure. The use of antimony/barium facilitates more efficient attenuation of the photon spectrum below the K-edge window of lead (35-88 keV). Moreover, the higher Z elements, tungsten, bismuth, and lead found in our core materials permit them to more effectively offset higher energy radiation (> 88 keV) as well as cover the K-edge fluorescence window of antimony (< 35 keV).
In addition, they feature advanced elastomers that have an optimal balance of flexibility, durability, and strength. To view the density and surface weight of our core materials, please download the flyer below.
The lifespan of core materials depends heavily on proper shipping, storage, and use. Physical damage and hardening can cause changes in the core material. The average lifespan of our aprons is 3-5 years with moderate use and proper storage. If damage or visible alteration of the core material takes place, then its use must be discontinued. We highly recommend that facilities ensure that they have the proper apron storage in place to ensure the lifespan of the apron is maximized.