PEEK Nanocomposites Containing Bi2O3 or BaSO4: A Complete Determination of X-Ray Shielding, Mechanical, Thermal, and Wear Characteristics Under Harsh Radiation Conditions

With growing demands for enhanced safety, the development of X-ray shielding materials with superior attenuation, mechanical strength, and improved resistance to radiation-induced degradation has become crucial. Among polymeric materials, poly(ether ether ketone) (PEEK) exhibits exceptional radiation resistance, which extends its operational lifespan and minimizes premature failures in protective systems. Therefore, this work evaluated PEEK nanocomposites containing 0–60 wt% bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) or barium sulfate (BaSO4) for their potential applications in X-ray shielding under harsh radiation conditions. The results indicated that incorporating Bi2O3 or BaSO4 substantially increased X-ray attenuation (20–60-fold improvement), surface hardness, and density compared to pristine PEEK. Additionally, after exposure to 500 kGy gamma irradiation, only minimal changes were observed in X-ray attenuation, tensile strength, thermal stability, and density, indicating the durability of the nanocomposites under harsh conditions. Although impact strength and wear resistance slightly declined after the irradiation, degradation was notably lower in nanocomposites, suggesting that Bi2O3 and BaSO4 acted as effective degradation suppressors due to their high radiation protection. These findings highlighted the potential of PEEK nanocomposites as next-generation radiation shielding materials, offering superior X-ray protection and enhanced stability under high-dose irradiation compared to conventional materials, thereby making them promising candidates for advanced protective systems. © 2025 Society of Plastics Engineers.