Lead-free radiation shielding material and processes for producing and using the same are described. The radiation shielding comprising a heavy metal component, such as bismuth, and a polymer component while also being optically transparent. The bismuth can be bonded to the polymer component or can be embedded within the matrix of the polymer component without being bonded to the polymer. As well, the bismuth can be nanoparticles that are contained within the matrix of the polymer component without being bonded to the polymer. The bismuth provides a stable, environmentally benign alternative to lead, while blocking the radiation and also being optically transparent. Other embodiments are described.