Journal of Polymer Science · 1958 · 34 citations · 9 references
Natural SciencesChemistryMaterials SciencePhysical ChemistryPolymer ChemistryPolymer MaterialsPolymer DegradationPolymer Physical ChemistryPolymer PhysicsRadiation ChemistryRadiation Damage In MaterialsRadiation Interaction With MatterIrradiation Effects On MaterialsPolymer Degradation Under RadiationPolymer Radiation DamageRadiation Chemistry Of PolymersRadiation CrosslinkingRadiation Damage MechanismsRadiation-induced DegradationRadiation-induced Polymerization
Abstract The action of ionizing radiations on polymers leads, in general, to degradation and, in certain cases, to some further polymerization (crosslinking). It is known, on general physical grounds, that the energy of the radiation is converted into ionization and excitation of the molecules present in the system. The question arises as to how the radiation‐produced primary species enter into the mechanism of the subsequent chemical processes. It is suggested that electronic processes are of considerable importance in the radiation‐induced reactions of solid polymers; this is discussed with reference to various physical and chemical data on irradiated polymers (radiation‐induced electrical conductivity, paramagnetic resonance, etc.). A unified picture for the mechanism of the action of ionizing radiations is proposed, based on the zone theory of solids.
9