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Nanotechnology

Nanofibers Enhance Radiation Resistance in Medical and Nuclear Applications

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Researchers at the Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology have conducted a study comparing the radiation resistance of nanofiber-reinforced woven (NFW) and surface-coated (SC) gloves. The study aimed to identify the optimal integration method for enhanced durability. Samples were subjected to electron beam irradiation, and the results demonstrated significant differences in radiation resistance between the two types of gloves. The findings suggest that nanofiber-reinforced woven integration is the preferred method for manufacturing radiation-resistant protective gloves, providing a solution for improved safety and reduced replacement costs in medical sterilization, nuclear facilities, and research laboratories.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study compared the radiation resistance of nanofiber-reinforced woven (NFW) and surface-coated (SC) gloves to identify the optimal integration method for enhanced durability.
  • Samples (n = 3 per condition) were subjected to electron beam irradiation at 10, 15, and 25kGy, and characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and tensile testing.
  • The results demonstrated significant differences (p < 0.05) in radiation resistance between the two types of gloves, with NFW gloves showing improved resistance.
  • The study concluded that nanofiber-reinforced woven integration is the preferred method for manufacturing radiation-resistant protective gloves.
  • The findings have significant implications for improved safety and reduced replacement costs in medical sterilization, nuclear facilities, and research laboratories.
  • The research was conducted by Pattra Lertsarawut, Phatsaran Laohhapaiboon, and Ornnicha Kongwut, and has been peer-reviewed.
  • The study was published in the journal Applied Radiation and Isotopes.

Statistics:

  • 10, 15, and 25kGy: the electron beam irradiation doses used in the study.
  • n = 3 per condition: the number of samples used in the study for each condition.
  • p < 0.05: the statistical significance of the differences in radiation resistance between the two types of gloves.
  • 2025: the year the study was conducted.
  • 225: the volume number of the journal Applied Radiation and Isotopes where the study was published.

Sources:

  • Nitrile gloves enhanced with nanofibers: Comparing integrated reinforcement vs. surface coating for superior radiation resistance in medical and nuclear applications. Applied Radiation and Isotopes, 2025;225:112016.
  • Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology Reports Findings in Nanofibers (Nitrile gloves enhanced with nanofibers: Comparing integrated reinforcement vs. surface coating for superior radiation resistance in medical and nuclear applications). Nanotechnology Weekly. July 21, 2025; p 1864.
  • Applied Radiation and Isotopes can be contacted at: Pergamon-elsevier Science Ltd, The Boulevard, Langford Lane, Kidlington, Oxford OX5 1GB, England. (Elsevier - www.elsevier.com; Applied Radiation and Isotopes - www.journals.elsevier.com/applied-radiation-and-isotopes/)
  • Pattra Lertsarawut, Nuclear Technology Research and Development Center, Thailand Institute of Nuclear Technology (Public Organization), Nakhon Nayok, 26120, Thailand.

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