Polymer irradiation

Thermo-softening plastics – No cross-links between the chains or carbon atoms.

Thermosetting plastics – Cross-links between chain of carbon atoms.

Radiation has two key effects on polymers:- – Making the polymer chain shorter. – Cross-linking between polymer chains. The balance between the two effects will determine the ultimate change in properties of the irradiated polymer. The plastic will still look the same but its properties will have changed. The change in properties allows the plastic to find a greater range of applications. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene can be irradiated to improve their properties giving higher softening point, decreased flammability and improved resistance to abrasion.