Choosing the Right Material for X-Ray Positioning Aids
Choosing the correct foam material depends on how your positioning aids will be used. For X-ray applications, factors such as radiolucency, durability, cleaning requirements, and infection control all need to be considered.
Raw Foam
Raw foam is made from medical-grade radiolucent foam and is suitable for a wide range of medical and veterinary positioning applications.
- ✔ Cost-effective option
- ✔ Medical-grade radiolucent foam
- ✔ Easy to customise for specific positioning requirements
Raw foam is ideal for custom solutions or lower-use applications where a protective outer covering is not required.
Vinyl Foam
Vinyl is a strong and durable covering option, designed to resist abrasions and chemical damage. It is ideal where durability and surface protection are the priority.
- ✔ Highly durable surface
- ✔ Resistant to wear and chemicals
- ✔ Suitable for general positioning applications
Vinyl is not recommended for X-rays due to the potential risk of artefacts appearing in images.
Dartex Foam
Dartex is the recommended choice for X-ray procedures. It is a radiolucent, anti-static material designed for medical imaging environments.
- ✔ Suitable for X-ray imaging
- ✔ Minimises risk of image artefacts
- ✔ Withstands hospital grade cleaning
- ✔ Easy infection control
For radiology departments and high-use clinical environments, Dartex provides the best balance of imaging performance, hygiene, and durability.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Dartex | Vinyl | Raw Foam |
|---|---|---|---|
| X-Ray Suitability | Excellent | Not Recommended | Suitable |
| Durability | High | Very High | Moderate |
| Cleaning | Excellent | Good | Limited |
| Best Use | X-rays & hospitals | General positioning | Custom solutions |

Which Foam Should You Choose?
Dartex is recommended for X-ray applications due to its radiolucent properties.
Vinyl is best where durability and chemical resistance are the priority.
Raw foam provides a flexible and economical option for custom positioning needs.

