Flexible and lead-free X-ray shielding materials made of electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol)/tungsten trioxide nanofibers

X-ray shielding in clinical and industrial environments commonly relies on heavy, lead-based materials to ensure effective radiation protection. This study demonstrates the fabrication of lightweight, conformable, lead-free X-ray shields based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and tungsten trioxide (WO₃) composite nanofibers. A sustainable water-based electrospinning route is used to prepare the nanofibers, followed by thermal crosslinking in the presence of citric acid (CA). This process yields water-stable PVA/WO₃ nanofibers while preserving a homogeneous morphology up to 20% w/v WO₃ nanoparticles. FTIR confirms the formation of ester linkages between PVA and CA and the progressive incorporation of the WO₃ filler, while SEM and DSC support the retention of a continuous nanofibrous architecture and the main thermal transitions after esterification. XCOM simulations (20–140 keV) predict a monotonic increase in X-ray attenuation with increasing WO₃ loading. Experimental X-ray imaging corroborates the shielding performance as a function of WO₃ content and mat thickness. Overall, these PVA/WO₃ composite nanofibers, obtained via an eco-friendly water-based electrospinning process, represent promising candidates for lightweight, conformable, lead-free shielding systems.