NuWEP

In specialized industries where neutron radiation management is crucial, traditional nuclear shielding methods aren’t always enough. That’s why Frontier Technology Corp. has pioneered the development of NuWEP^®, an advanced WEP (Water Extended Polyethylene) resin shielding formula. Our innovative NuWEP solution is designed specifically to attenuate neutron radiation and provide a level of protection from gamma radiation.

Common Neutron Shielding Materials

Many materials may be used to shield against neutron radiation. Some of the most common neutron shielding materials include:

• Paraffin: Paraffin is a waxy hydrocarbon material derived from petroleum. It is often enriched with heavy metal atoms to create an effective composite shielding material. Paraffin-boric acid shields, for instance, both attenuate high-energy neutrons and absorb those of lower energy. A major drawback is its relatively low melting point, which can lead to compromised shielding.
• Concrete: Concrete is another conventional shielding material. It is among the most affordable options, and its moldability means it can be used for almost any shape. However, concrete’s shielding performance depends on environmental conditions, and it can be prone to cracks.
• WEP Resin: Water-extended polyethylene resin is an innovative shielding material that is highly effective for neutron shielding. WEP is easy to apply and offers high mechanical strength and durability. It performs well at temperatures up to 500°F (260°C) and resists degradation from weathering and chemical exposure. It is not activated by neutron flux.

It is important to note that heavy metals, such as lead, are not used in neutron shielding.

Benefits of Using NuWEP over Other Neutron Shielding Materials

Key benefits of NuWEP over other shielding materials include:

• High Water Content: As a result of the emulsification process, NuWEP resin’s final hydrogen content is almost as high as that of pure water. Water itself is an extremely effective neutron shield, though it can be difficult to use in some applications. Unlike water, WEP resin cures into a solid, contiguous material, so it can easily be used in almost any shielding application.
• Cost-Effective: NuWEP is a very affordable substance by weight compared to alternative materials like concrete or paraffin. The production process can also be shorter and cheaper than that of concrete since NuWEP resin cures very quickly in the air.
• Harsh Environmental Resistance: WEP is completely inert. It doesn’t break down and it resists damage from exposure to water, weathering, and harsh chemicals. It is highly durable and can hold up to the toughest working environments. This is a significant advantage over concrete, which has limited chemical resistance properties. WEP is also fire-retardant (although best-suited for normal operating temperatures).
• Easy Preparation: NuWEP resin is formed through a simple process of mixing and curing, which means it is easy and fast to prepare, which saves time and money.
• Void-Free Curing: NuWEP resin sets cleanly and with minimal imperfections and no odor. It cures as a contiguous solid material with no voids, holes, or bubbles. This keeps performance high and production costs low.
• Reusable: When kept intact as originally manufactured, shipping containers and shielding walls containing NuWEP can be reused.

The team at Frontier is happy to answer further questions about how NuWEP resin compares to other options.

NuWEP Shielding Products from Frontier

Neutron emissions are a serious threat in many industries. NuWEP offers a versatile and cost-effective way to mitigate that risk and protect employees.

Since 1987 we at Frontier Technology Corporation have been world leaders in neutron source fabrication and shipping. We apply our expertise in shielding logistics to deliver reliable custom shields that meet varied industry challenges.

Frontier shielding walls meet industry standards, including 10CFR50 Appendix B, IAEA Special Form Certification, U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) regulations, U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (USNRC) regulations, NIST-traceable requirements, ISO 2919, and ANSI 97E6644, 97E6X644, 97E66543, and 97E66344