Korean researchers develop new material that shields cosmic radiation

[Courtesy of Korea Institute of Science and Technology]

A group of scientists in South Korea has recently developed an innovative fiber material capable of protecting astronauts from cancer-causing cosmic radiation.

The Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) announced Sunday that the team, led by Professor Kim Dae-yoon from the Functional Composite Materials Research Center, has created a new composite fiber that effectively blocks neutrons, a key component of cosmic radiation.

Cosmic radiation poses significant risks to astronauts as the neutrons in radiation are cancer-causing. It can also threaten space missions by causing malfunctions in electronic devices.

As part of efforts to prevent such issues, the researchers developed a technique to combine nanomaterials, specifically boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs), with aramid polymers.

The latest breakthrough enables the production of lightweight, flexible fibers that remain non-combustible even at temperatures up to 500 degrees Celsius.

By blocking neutron radiation, BNNT composite fibers can effectively provide significant protection for flight attendants, medical personnel, power plant workers, and others in the workplace vulnerable to radiation.

BNNTs also give the fibers high heat resistance, making them suitable for space exploration, defense operations, and firefighting sites.