Radiation processing of polymers and its applications

Tamada, Masao; Maekawa, Yasunari

Radiation processing such as crosslinking, graft polymerization, and degradation is a feasible technology to functionalize polymers. Distinctive points of these techniques were described from the viewpoint of versatile applications. In the crosslinking, polysaccharides, soluble cellulose derivatives, lead hydrogels for bedsore prevention mat, coolant, and water absorbent for livestock excrement treatment. Crosslinked poly-lactic acid is applicable for heat shrinkable tube and elastic film. Grafting can impart desired functions to the commercial trunk polymers. When the fibrous trunk polymer is selected, a metal adsorbent obtained realizes the high performance in flow rate for the collection of toxic and rare metal ions. Files such as fluoro-polymers and aromatic hydrocarbon polymers can be modified to highly durable fuel cell membranes. Degraded oligosaccharides induce the activity of plant growth promoter.