[ RadSafe ] Pb's future as a shielding material

[Bob Westerdale]

Hi-
I've been plowing through the EU's upcoming RoHS ( Removal of Hazardous 
Substances) Directive, looking to see whether they have considered 
prohibiting the use of Pb as Radiation Shielding in Analytical X-Ray 
systems.   This Directive is largely aimed at the Electronics Industry, 
mandating the use of Pb-free solders and prohibiting the use of Hg,  Cd 
and Cr-6 ( among others..)
There seems to be an exemption ( at least for the moment)  for  " 
Monitoring and Control Instruments",  but finding some firm statement that 
the use of Pb as radiation shielding is OK has been elusive. 

Thanks in advance!

Bob Westerdale
RSO,  EDAX, Inc.