IMPROVEMENT IN PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF POLYMERIC CONSUMER PRODUCTS VIA ELECTRON-BEAM PROCESSING

摘要

Modifications in polymeric structure of plastic materials can be brought about either by conventional thermochemical means, or by utilization of ionizing radiation in the form of electron-beam processing (EBP). Of specific interest to the plastics industry is the use of EBP to improve thermal, chemical, barrier, impact, wear, and other properties of inexpensive commodity thermoplastics, extending their utility to demanding applications typically dominated by higher-cost engineered materials. EBP has been successfully utilized to significantly extend the thermomechanical properties of cross-linkable plastics. This paper presents the results of EBP experimental work on several types of commercially available plastic consumer products used for food and other bulk storage, waste removal, liquids handling, and other household applications. Properties reported include tensile, impact, and service temperature. Cross-link levels are reported as a function of insolubles (gel) content. On the basis of the data, general conclusions are drawn regarding the applicability of EBP for property enhancement of consumer plastic goods.