MODIFICATION OF PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF POLYETHYLENE RESINS THROUGH ELECTRON BEAM OR GAMMA IRRADIATION

摘要

Polyethylene resins have been modified with electron beam or gamma radiation to adjust some of their physical and chemical characteristics before their conversion into formed parts, with positive impact on the properties of end products produced from these resins. This paper provides results from characterization studies which give evidence of structural changes, including long-chain branching and oxidation, from the modification of certain polyethylene resins, as well as data on important property enhancements in extruded, injection-molded and blown film end products produced from these resins. The property enhancements allow the material to be more competitive with other resins and offer good prospects for overall cost savings.