Page "Food irradiation" Paragraph 53

Similar to gamma radiation, X-rays are photon radiation of a wide energy spectrum and an alternative to isotope based irradiation systems.

X-rays are generated by colliding accelerated electrons with a dense material ( target ) such as tantalum or tungsten in a process known as bremsstrahlung-conversion.

X-ray irradiators are scalable and have deep penetration comparable to Co-60, with the added benefit that the electronic source stops radiating when switched off.

They also permit dose uniformity, but these systems generally have low energetic efficiency during the conversion of electron energy to photon radiation requiring much more electrical energy than other systems.

Like most other types of facilities, X-ray systems rely on concrete shields to protect the environment and workers from radiation.