What material is commonly used in personal radiation protection devices?

Lead is a commonly used material in personal radiation protection devices primarily due to its high density and effective shielding capabilities against various types of radiation, particularly X-rays and gamma rays. The dense structure of lead is effective at absorbing and attenuating radiation, which helps to minimize exposure to radiation workers in medical, industrial, and research settings.

In addition to lead's effectiveness, it is also relatively malleable, allowing it to be formed into protective garments such as aprons and gloves that are comfortable and practical for users. This combination of functionality and protection makes lead the material of choice for personal radiation protection devices in many scenarios.