The Radiation Chemistry Of Macromolecules

The Radiation Chemistry of Macromolecules, Volume II is a collection of papers that discusses radiation chemistry of specific systems. Part 1 deals with radiation chemistry of substituted vinyl polymers, particularly polypropylene (PP) as its structure is intermediate between polyethylene and polyisobutylene. This part also discusses polypropylene oxide (PPOx) for it can be prepared in the atactic, isotactic, and optically active forms. One paper focuses on the fundamental chemical processes and the changes in physical properties that give rise to many different applications of polystyrene. Another paper analyzes poly(methyl methacrylate) and poly(isobutylene)—two important polymers of nongelling substances subject to radiation. Part 2 describes the radiation chemistry of some miscellaneous polymers including the formation of free radicals and their termination. One paper also considers the radiation chemistry of polytetrafluoroethyle (PTFE), which is widely used in industry. Part 3 discusses the effect of radiation on oxidation, mechanical properties, and physical state of polymers. Part 4 addresses macromolecules, particularly the radiation chemistry of biopolymers because of their role in radiation chemistry. The damage done to biopolymers through radiation can affect the responses of living organisms to ionizing radiation. This book can prove valuable to scientists and researchers in the fields of nuclear biology, nuclear science, microchemistry, and cellular biology.

The Radiation Chemistry of Macromolecules is the first from a two-volume series aiming to contribute to the radiation chemistry in general. The chapters in this volume are divided into two major parts, where the first part deals with the basic processes and theory, while the second part tackles experimental techniques and applications to polyethylene. Part I focuses on the discussion on general principles of radiation effects; fundamental concepts on energy transfer; and the theory of free radicals. The subject of polymers is discussed thoroughly in several chapters including its molecular mobilities and electrical conductivity. Part II presents experimental techniques and a description of the radiation chemistry of a single polymer. This part also includes a discussion on the morphology of polyethylene and free radicals in irradiated polyethylene. This book is an important reference to students and scientists in the field of radiation chemistry of macromolecules.

Covers the main theoretical and practical problems involved in radiation chemistry of polymers. The processes of polymerization and modification of polymers induced by ionizing radiation, are described, as well as the radiation resistance of polymers and their protection from radiation.