An overview of electron beam systems provides a summary of system configurations and significance of important energy measurements related to systems capabilities. The overview includes the benefits of direct vs. indirect systems, horizontal vs. vertical beam sources, and the importance of power and energy values to throughput and penetration of systems. The radiation effects on polymers are described and the mechanisms of these changes are defined. The responses of a number of polymers important to the medical industry are summarized. A few key guidelines for polymer selection are: 1. Selection of the highest molecular weight polymer to help reduce any effects of degradation. 2. Aromatic polymers exhibit better radiation resistance than aliphatic polymers. 3. Antioxidants can often be added to improve radiation stability. 4. Less oxygen dissolved in the polymer and surrounding the polymers will help reduce oxidative degradation. The material properties required for radiation resistance and suitability for electron beam sterilization are delineated and discussed.
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