Abstract: Compositions and processes for forming radiopaque polymeric articles are disclosed. In one embodiment, radiation inspection apparatuses and methods are then used to determine the presence and attributes of such radiopaque polymeric articles. A radiopaque polymeric article of the present invention can be created by mixing a radiopaque material, such as barium, bismuth, tungsten or their compounds, with a powdered polymer, pelletized polymer or liquid solution, emulsion or suspension of a polymer in solvent or water. In addition to creating radiation detectable objects, the radiopaque polymeric materials of the present invention can be used to create radiation protective articles, such as radiation protective garments and bomb containment vessels. Enhanced radiation protection can also be achieved through the use of nano-materials. The principals of the present invention can be used to provide protection against other types of hazards, including fire, chemical, biological and projectile hazards.

Abstract: A radiation attenuation system suitable for use in radiological examinations includes a first portion comprising a radiation attenuation material and a second portion comprising a relatively non-radiation attenuation buffer region between the radiation attenuation material and an article undergoing the examination. The radiation attenuation system may be positioned over, under, near, or otherwise about the article. According to one embodiment, the radiation attenuation system is intended to be positioned over a target area on the article and coincident with the primary radiation beam.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a lead-free radiation protection material in the energy range of an X-ray tube having a voltage of from 60 to 125 kV. The lead-free radiation protection material has a layer structure having at least two layers with different shielding properties.

Abstract: A radiation attenuating head cover configured to at least partially cover a head of a user is disclosed. The radiation attenuating head cover includes a radiation attenuating portion positionable across a forehead of the user and extending in a vertical direction between an upper edge and a lower edge. The lower edge is configured to remain above the eyes and ears of the user. The radiation attenuating head cover also includes an attachment device for securing the radiation attenuation head cover to the user. The radiation attenuating portion is configured to protect the user from radiation during a radiological procedure.

Abstract: The invention relates to a lead substitute material for radiation protection purposes, wherein the lead substitute material comprises from 12 to 22 wt. % silicone-based matrix material, from 1 to 75 wt. % Sn or Sn compounds, from 0 to 73 wt. % W or W compounds, from 0 to 80 wt. % Bi or Bi compounds, for nominal overall lead equivalents of from 0.25 to 2.00 mm. The invention relates further to a lead substitute material that additionally comprises one or more of the elements Er, Ho, Dy, Tb, Gd, Eu, Sm, Ta, Hf, Lu, Yb, Tm, Th, U and/or their compounds and/or CsI.

Abstract: A radiation shield includes a radio-opaque drape which has an open area extending completely through the drape to provide a viewing site. Radiation control structure in the form of a vent system is located in the open area. The vent system includes a plurality of radio-opaque slats extending at least partially across at least a portion of the open area. The slats preferably extend outwardly away from the surface of the drape to facilitate the capturing of scattered radiation.

Abstract: An objective is to provide an electromagnetic wave shielding material exhibiting an excellent electromagnetic wave shielding property, and also to provide a manufacturing method with quick and simple processing, in which a thin-line-state picture image can easily be formed. An electromagnetic wave shielding material exhibiting an excellent near-infrared shielding property can further be provided if desired. Disclosed is an electromagnetic wave shielding material possessing a support and provided thereon, a conductive metal layer, wherein the conductive metal layer satisfies at least one of the following conditions; (1) a void ratio of the conductive metal layer is 0.1-15%, (2) Glossiness of the conductive metal layer is 50-300%, and (3) Center line average surface roughness (Ra) of the conductive metal layer is 1-50 nm.

Abstract: A method of treating a subject is provided. The subject is placed in a garment or the garment is placed on the subject so as to cover a portion of the surface area of the subject with the garment. The garment is substantially transparent to a predetermined range of wavelengths. The subject is then exposed for a period of time to a light source that includes light having all or a portion of the predetermined range of wavelengths. A therapeutic clothing apparatus consisting of a blanket or hat is provided. The blanket or hat is made from a fabric that is substantially transparent to visible wavelengths.

Abstract: A device for shielding at least a region of a creature from exposure to unwanted radiation during the use of an x-ray or other medical diagnostic machine or equipment includes one of a first portion sized and configured to shield an upper extremities region of the creature and a second portion sized and configured to shield a lower extremities region of the creature. The first and second portions are comprised of two opposite end regions constructed of a radiation absorbing material and connected by a middle region constructed of a non-radiation absorbing material.

Abstract: An infrared projector including: a light source which radiates an infrared ray; and an emitter which emits visible light when exposed to infrared light, wherein the emitter is provided on a position where the infrared ray radiated from the light source reaches.

Abstract: The present invention provides radioprotective materials and products produced using the materials, the materials and products being easily usable for blocking the effects of radiation, exposure to which occurs unconsciously in daily life or in the working environment. Specifically stated, the present invention provides radioprotective materials comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of collagens, keratins, silk fibroins and their derivatives. The present invention also provides radioprotective products produced using the radioprotective materials.

Abstract: The invention related to a radiation protection arrangement for screening radiation emitted from a radiation source, especially an x-ray source. Said arrangement is provided with a screening element consisting of, or comprising, a radiation protection material, and a cover, which fully surrounds the screening element. Said cover can be pulled over the screening element and completely separated from the same. As the cover can be changed, the radiation protection arrangement can be kept clean and sterile in a simple manner.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device arrangement for intraoral X-ray imaging comprising an X-ray source unit for generating X-radiation and an intraoral sensor placed in the mouth for X-ray imaging, which receives X-radiation for compiling X-ray image data. The device arrangement comprises a protective garment, which garment protects the patient from X-radiation passing the intraoral sensor, and in which protective garment is located an electronics unit for the X-ray image data received by the intraoral sensor. The X-ray image data is transmitted from the intraoral sensor to the electronics unit by means of first data transfer means comprised in the device arrangement, the device arrangement further comprising second data transfer means for transmitting data between the electronics unit located in the protective garment and the rest of the device arrangement.

Abstract: A radiation attenuation system suitable for use in radiological examinations includes a first portion comprising a radiation attenuation material and a second portion comprising a relatively non-radiation attenuation buffer region between the radiation attenuation material and an article undergoing the examination. The radiation attenuation system may be positioned over, under, near, or otherwise about the article. According to one embodiment, the radiation attenuation system is intended to be positioned over a target area on the article and coincident with the primary radiation beam.

Abstract: A unique and novel multi-functional composite fabric and fabrication process for use during chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear countermeasure (CBRNC) events is disclosed. The composite fabric combines the performance characteristics of chemically resistant films and radiation attenuating polymer matrices. The composite fabric offers universal protection against a wide range of military chemical agents, toxic industrial chemicals and materials (TICS and TIMS), biological agents, as well as certain ionizing and non-ionizing forms of radiation. The composite fabric is heat sealable and can be fabricated utilizing hermetically seal seams, and has application in protective clothing and equipment, indoor and outdoor covers, containment systems, bags, drapes, gowns, remains pouches, etc.

Abstract: External ocular shields for protecting a patient's eyes from medical treatment radiation energy such as a laser during a medical procedure. Each shield has an external surface that absorbs energy that hits the shield. The shields are connected to each other by a nose piece, and the nose piece is connected to each shield by a mounting means. The mounting means are positioned perpendicular to the shields and parallel to each other so that the nose piece can pivot upward towards the user's forehead and downward towards the user's chin without altering the fit of the shields over the user's eyes.

Abstract: A garment and method for reducing electromagnetic radiation produced by a transmitting device typically located inside a body. The garment may include material to prevent or lower electromagnetic radiation. A method for using such a garment to lower electromagnetic emissions is described.

Abstract: The invention relates o a lead substitute material for radiation protection purposes. The lead substitute material comprises Sn, Bi and optionally W or compounds of said metals and the composition of the lead-substitute material is a function of the nominal lead equivalent value.

Abstract: A disposable cover for electromagnetic treatment applicators prevents undesired exposure to potentially harmful radiation. The cover is a pouch-like structure having a back surface (which faces opposite, or away from, the treatment area) constructed from shielding material, such as metallized polyethylene. At least a portion of the cover which faces the treatment area is constructed solely from non-shielding material. Adhesive strips, ZIP-LOCK®, or other interlocking edges, secure the applicator inside the cover and close off any leaks. The electromagnetic properties of the cover are integrated into the circuitry for the treatment applicator, such that the applicator is not functional in the absence of the cover. In use, an electromagnetic treatment applicator is inserted into the cover and positioned over the area to be treated, with the non-shielding, or “window”, portion of the cover overlying the treatment area.

Abstract: A protective item for a firefighter or for an emergency rescue worker has an outer shell and an inner liner, wherein at least one of the outer shell and the inner liner is opaque to hazardous radiation. The inner liner may have plural layers, one being opaque to hazardous radiation, another providing a moisture and chemical barrier, and another providing thermal insulation.

Abstract: A radiation shielding arrangement for shielding high-energy neutron radiation and gamma radiation from high-energy particle accelerators or storage rings includes a shielding element made of water-containing material, for example with chemically bound water or water of crystallization, in particular gypsum. The water component of the material preferably makes up at least 5, 10 or 20 percent by weight. The hydrogen nuclei or protons contained therein moderate neutrons in a virtually ideal manner because of the almost identical mass and the maximum pulse transformation associated with this.

Abstract: A radiation shield sheet includes a raw utilizing sheet, which includes a plurality of fibers and a plurality of matrixes reinforced together to define a predetermined crossed structure having a plurality of trapping meshes formed between the fibers and matrixes respectively, and a shielding layer, which is made by a predetermined amount of radiation inadmissible material capable of attenuating an intensity of a predetermined electromagnetic radiation, coated on an exposure surface of the raw utilizing sheet, wherein a portion of the shielding layer is captured in the trapping meshes so as to securely bond the radiation shielding layer on the raw utilizing sheet.

Abstract: Articles, including fabrics and film layers, are disclosed which can protect against multiple hazards, including radiation, chemical, biological agents, metal projectiles and fire hazards. In some embodiments, the fabrics and films of the present invention are used to produce garments having protection against multiple hazards and superior heat dissipating properties. A radiation protective compound is preferably created by mixing a radiopaque material, such as barium, bismuth, tungsten or their compounds, with powdered polymer, pelletized polymer or a liquid solution, emulsion or suspension of a polymer in solvent or water. This radiation protective mixture can then be laminated or otherwise adhered to other types of protective films or fabric, such as the protective polymer films or fabrics used for chemical protective garments, biological protective garments, bullet proof vests or fire retardant garments.

Abstract: An article which has radiopaque qualities and a method for making it. In a preferred embodiment, a lightweight fabric, such as a cloth surgical mask liner (24) or an entire surgical mask (10), is impregnated with a relatively lightweight radiopaque material, such as a barium sulfate compound, to impart radiopaque qualities. In other embodiments, a similar fabric is used to produce an entire radiation protective jumpsuit, a tent, wallpaper or a liner for a commercial aircraft cabin. Impregnation of the relatively lightweight radiopaque material can be performed in a number of ways, including soaking the fabric in a solution containing the relatively lightweight radiopaque material or using the fabric as a filter in a passing solution of the lightweight radiopaque material. In one preferred embodiment, which is particularly suited for mass production of relatively lightweight radiopaque fabrics, a lightweight radiopaque material is mixed with a liquid polymer.

Abstract: A protective item for a firefighter or for an emergency rescue worker has an outer shell and an inner liner, wherein at least one of the outer shell and the inner liner is opaque to hazardous radiation. The inner liner may have plural layers, one being opaque to hazardous radiation, another providing a moisture and chemical barrier, and another providing thermal insulation.

Abstract: Apparatus, systems and methods for delivering brachytherapy to a target tissue region of a human or other mammalian body. In some embodiments, a flexible brachytherapy device is implanted that includes a therapy delivery portion having one or more radioactive sources securely retained thereto, and a tail portion extending from the therapy delivery portion. Once implanted, the tail portion may extend outside the body, where it may be folded and secured flat against the skin. The device may be removed at therapy completion. Other embodiments of the invention are directed to systems and methods for delivering brachytherapy devices to the body.

Abstract: This invention relates to topical compositions and a glove for protection against radiation exposure, such as that due to radiation used in medical procedures.

Abstract: A resonance decoupling device for protecting a human or animal body including a support adapted to be placed in contact with a portion of a body under conditions of use, the support comprising at least one complex of colloidal systems in dispersant phase, the colloidal systems includsing treated and modulated polymers.

Abstract: Articles, including fabrics and film layers, are disclosed which can protect against multiple hazards, including radiation, chemical, biological agents, metal projectiles and fire hazards. In some embodiments, the fabrics and films of the present invention are used to produce garments having protection against multiple hazards and superior heat dissipating properties. A radiation protective compound is preferably created by mixing a radiopaque material, such as barium, bismuth, tungsten or their compounds, with powdered polymer, pelletized polymer or a liquid solution, emulsion or suspension of a polymer in solvent or water. This radiation protective mixture can then be laminated or otherwise adhered to other types of protective films or fabric, such as the protective polymer films or fabrics used for chemical protective garments, biological protective garments, bullet proof vests or fire retardant garments.

Abstract: An article for deflecting electromagntic fields consisting of a conductive meshed dry frbric with conductive filaments parallel to one another, bordered by a conductive fabric having a grid of filments arranged in criss-cross fashion. Connected to the fabric is an electric circuit designed to dissapate, by the Joule effect, the electromagnetic signal coming from the article.

Abstract: The radiation shielding composition and method of the present invention relate to a conformal coating material composed of a matrix of densely packed radiation shielding particles, which are disbursed within a binder. The shielding composition is applied to objects to be protected such as integrated circuits, or to packages therefor, as well as for protecting animals including humans from unwanted exposure to radiation in outer space or other environments.

Abstract: The radiation shielding composition and method of the present invention relate to a conformal coating material composed of a matrix of densely packed radiation shielding particles, which are disbursed within a binder. The shielding composition is applied to objects to be protected such as integrated circuits, or to packages therefor, as well as for protecting animals including humans from unwanted exposure to radiation in outer space or other environments.

Abstract: An article which has radiopaque qualities and a method for making it. In a preferred embodiment, a lightweight fabric, such as a cloth surgical mask liner (24) or an entire surgical mask (10), is impregnated with a relatively lightweight radiopaque material, such as a barium sulfate compound, to impart radiopaque qualities. In other embodiments, a similar fabric is used to produce an entire radiation protective jumpsuit, a tent, wallpaper or a liner for a commercial aircraft cabin. Impregnation of the relatively lightweight radiopaque material can be performed in a number of ways, including soaking the fabric in a solution containing the relatively lightweight radiopaque material or using the fabric as a filter in a passing solution of the lightweight radiopaque material. In one preferred embodiment, which is particularly suited for mass production of relatively lightweight radiopaque fabrics, a lightweight radiopaque material is mixed with a liquid polymer.

Abstract: A lightweight, breathable material which has radiopaque qualities and a method for making the radiopaque material. In a preferred embodiment, a lightweight fabric, such as a cloth surgical mask liner (24) or an entire surgical mask (10), is impregnated with a lightweight radiopaque compound, such as a barium sulfate compound, to impart radiopaque qualities. Impregnation of the lightweight radiopaque compound can be performed in any number of ways, including soaking the fabric in a solution containing the lightweight radiopaque compound, using the fabric as a filter in a passing solution of the lightweight radiopaque compound, placing the fabric in a reaction chamber between reagent solutions whose interaction will form the lightweight radiopaque compound and impregnating the fabric with one reagent and then exposing it to a complementary reagent whose reaction with the first reagent will form a lightweight radiopaque compound.

Abstract: A radiation protection system around a patient on an x-ray table includes a radiation protection wall with an opening around the x-ray table, a radiation screen over the patient, and a flexible interface joining the cubicle and the x-ray table. The wall shields medical personnel in an operating region from most radiation output by an x-ray emitter. The radiation screen is attached to the x-ray table such that it can be retracted to the foot of the x-ray table and extended over the patient such that it is interposed between the patient and the medical personnel. The interface has flexible joints attached to the wall and a flexible radiation-resistant skirt that joins the wall to the screen and covers the opening in the wall. An access port may be formed in the screen, and a shielding cloak can cover the access port to surround medical instruments that are threaded through the port and inserted into the patient.

Abstract: A lightweight, breathable material which has radiopaque qualities and a method for making the radiopaque material. In a preferred embodiment, a lightweight fabric, such as a cloth surgical mask liner (24) or an entire surgical mask (10), is impregnated with a lightweight radiopaque compound, such as a barium sulfate compound, to impart radiopaque qualities. Impregnation of the lightweight radiopaque compound can be performed in any number of ways, including soaking the fabric in a solution containing the lightweight radiopaque compound, using the fabric as a filter in a passing solution of the lightweight radiopaque compound, placing the fabric in a reaction chamber between reagent solutions whose interaction will form the lightweight radiopaque compound and impregnating the fabric with one reagent and then exposing it to a complementary reagent whose reaction with the first reagent will form a lightweight radiopaque compound.

Abstract: A material and devices made therefrom are described when placed in proximity to persons, animals and plants serve to lessen adverse health effects caused by electromagnetic radiation (EMR) exposure. The material has a polymeric matrix and inorganic and organic components which are responsive to an magnetic field and emitting natural electromagnetic oscillations which are beneficial to humans, animals and plants, and offset harmful aspects of the EMR. The polymer is polar and has high relative permitivity. The components are an oxydated hydrocarbon emulsifier; a galvanic salt; an alkaloid; a dye or stain; and a polysaccharide. The devices may be solid, fibrous, powdered or woven fabrics.

Abstract: A covering or shield attenuating the flux of electromagnetic radiation from an article. The shield includes a matrix, a radiation attenuating material provided in the matrix, and at least one space provided in the matrix. The space reduces the overall weight of the shield. The space can be a variety of shapes, including round, honeycombed, triangular, rectangular, or other configuration.

Abstract: A lightweight, breathable garment which has radiopaque qualities and a method for making the radiopaque garment. In a preferred embodiment, a lightweight fabric, such as a cloth surgical mask liner (24) or an entire surgical mask (10), is impregnated with a lightweight radiopaque compound, such as a barium sulfate compound, to impart radiopaque qualities. Impregnation of the lightweight radiopaque compound can be performed in any number of ways including soaking the fabric in a solution containing the lightweight radiopaque compound, using the fabric as a filter in a passing solution of the lightweight radiopaque compound, placing the fabric in a reaction chamber between reagent solutions whose interaction will form the lightweight radiopaque compound and impregnating the fabric with one reagent and then exposing it to a complementary reagent whose reaction with the first reagent will form a lightweight radiopaque compound.