Borated Polyethylene Neutron Shielding

Product description

Borated polyethylene combines hydrogen-rich plastic with boron to create an effective neutron shielding material. The hydrogen moderates fast neutrons, slowing them down so the boron can capture them. Nuclear Shields manufactures borated polyethylene shielding components from simple sheets to complex machined assemblies for research facilities, nuclear reactors, and particle accelerator installations.

Custom geometries for your application

Neutron shielding requirements rarely fit standard shapes. We machine borated polyethylene into rings, discs, blocks, and complex profiles matched to your detector geometry, beamline configuration, or reactor access requirements. Large-format components can be manufactured as single pieces or bolted assemblies depending on size and installation constraints.

Combined shielding for mixed radiation fields

Many applications involve both neutron and gamma radiation. We engineer composite shielding assemblies that combine borated polyethylene with lead, tungsten, or other gamma-attenuating materials. A typical construction might include a stainless steel structural shell, borated polyethylene for neutron capture, and lead for gamma shielding. The layer sequence and thicknesses are determined by your radiation environment and dose targets.

Fire resistant coatings

For installations where fire safety compliance is required, we apply fire resistant paint coatings to finished components. The coating protects the polyethylene surface while meeting facility fire rating requirements.

Structural integration

Heavy shielding components need proper structural support. We design assemblies with integrated mounting features, lifting points, and bolt patterns for installation. Stainless steel frames or shells can be incorporated where structural requirements demand it. Components arrive ready to install with all mounting hardware included.

From design to delivery

Send us your shielding requirements, radiation environment data, and geometric constraints. Our engineering team will specify the appropriate borated polyethylene grade, design the component geometry, and manufacture to your specifications. We handle projects from small machined parts to multi-ton shielding assemblies.

Applications

Particle accelerator shielding

Detector radiation protection, beamline shielding, and target station components. Custom ring and disc geometries for beam apertures and detector mounting.

Research reactor facilities

Beam port shielding, experimental station protection, and neutron source containment. Combined neutron and gamma shielding for mixed radiation environments.

Spent fuel storage

Neutron shielding for dry cask storage systems and fuel handling equipment. Combined with gamma shielding materials for complete radiation protection.

Neutron source applications

Shielding for neutron generators, californium sources, and neutron radiography installations.

Material Options