What is high-z materials?

High-z materials refer to materials with a high atomic number, typically greater than 70. These materials have a greater number of protons in their nucleus, leading to higher electron density and greater interactions with radiation. This makes them useful in a variety of applications, including radiation shielding and in medical imaging and radiotherapy.

One example of a high-z material is lead, which is commonly used as a shield against radiation in X-ray rooms and laboratories. Other high-z materials include tungsten, gold, platinum, and uranium.

In addition to their use in radiation shielding, high-z materials also have unique optical and electronic properties, making them useful in electronics, optics, and energy storage. For example, gold nanoparticles are used in medical imaging and cancer treatment, while tungsten is used in the fabrication of high-performance electronic devices.

Overall, high-z materials play an important role in various fields of science and technology, and their properties make them versatile for a wide range of applications.