Application of radiation-graft material for metal adsorbent and crosslinked natural polymer for healthcare product

Tamada, Masao; Seko, Noriaki; Yoshii, Fumio

Graft polymerization and crosslinking in radiation processing were attractive techniques to modify conventional polymers. In the case of graftpolymerization, metal adsorbent was prepared by introducing the chelate function to trunk polymer like polyethylene. The obtained metal adsorbent was applied to the recovery of uranium in seawater. Three years' marine experiment revealed that 1kg of uranium could be collected by using graft-adsorbent. Natural polymers such as derivatives of starch and cellulose led irradiation crosslinking at paste-like condition and formed hydrogels. These hydrogels had degradability even after crosslinking. The mat of degradable hydrogel was effective to prevent bedsores as a healthcare product. After use, the hydrogel can be converted to fertilizer by decompositions.