Progress in Ionizing Radiation Shielding Materials

The continuous development of ionizing radiation in medical imaging and treatment, nuclear reactors, food irradiation, and other fields is accompanied by potential risks. It protects related equipment and personnel by adopting radiation shielding materials to reduce irradiation. Due to the advancement of science and technology, many high‐performance radiation protection materials have been reported. Ionizing radiation is a complex environment involving X‐ray imaging, radiation therapy, nuclear power operation, and space radiation. Irradiation energy, irradiation type, and the measurement of shielding material have essential effects on shielding efficiency. However, there has not been a general review of the preparations and properties of ionizing radiation shielding materials in the light of different matrixes in recent years. Herein, a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in radiation shielding materials, categorized into alloys, concretes, glasses and ceramics, and polymer composites, is presented. Furthermore, the synthesis methods employed for these materials and their respective radiation shielding properties are discussed. Finally, the current research gap and possible future scope of radiation shielding materials are proposed.