Ionizing Radiation Effects in Polymers
Abstract
Compared to other materials such as steels or ceramics, polymers are quite sensitive to radiations, from UV to gamma-rays, and to particles beams (electrons, ions). Ionizing radiations induce chemical modifications that can be detrimental but also beneficial from a technological point of view. Since the discovery of these potentialities, the number of studies has not ceased to increase, on the fundamental effects of ionizing radiations on polymers, and more particularly on their application to the design new materials.
In this article, we present an overview of the state of knowledge on the effects of ionizing radiations on polymers, on the related technological applications and their recent evolution.