Radiation Chemistry

Abstract

The article contains sections titled: 1. Radiation-Induced Polymerization 1.1. Polymerization by Ionizing Radiation 1.1.1. Initiation of Polymerization by Ionizing Radiation 1.1.2. Free-Radical Polymerization 1.1.3. Ionic Polymerization 1.1.4. Radiation-Induced Polymerization of Solid Monomers 1.2. Action of Ionizing Radiation on Polymers-Polymer Modification 1.2.1. Reaction Mechanisms 1.2.2. Cross-Linking and Degradation 1.2.3. Graft Copolymerization 1.3. Applications 1.3.1. Electron-Beam Curing of Paints, Printing Inks, Adhesives, and Release Agents 1.3.1.1. Principle of Radiation Curing 1.3.1.2. Chemistry of Electron-Beam Curing 1.3.1.3. Industrial Irradiation Equipment, Low-Energy Electron Accelerators 1.3.1.4. Industrial Applications of Electron-Beam Curing 1.3.2. Radiation-Induced Cross-Linking 1.3.2.1. Cross-Linking of Cable and Wire Insulation 1.3.2.2. Vulcanization of Elastomers 1.3.2.3. Radiation-Cross-Linked Foam Polyethylene 1.3.2.4. Shrink Materials 1.3.3. Industrial Application of Radiation-Induced Graft Copolymerization 2. Irradiation of Foods and Feeds 2.1. Introduction 2.2. Capabilities of Food and Feed Irradiation 2.2.1. Prolongation of Shelf Life 2.2.2. Quarantine Measures 2.2.3. Control of Pathogenic Organisms 2.3. History 2.4. Effects of Food Irradiation 2.4.1. Induced Radioactivity 2.4.2. Chemical and Sensory Changes 2.4.3. Changes in Nutritive Value 2.4.4. Effects on Microorganisms 2.4.5. Toxicological Consequences 2.5. Regulations on the Irradiation of Foods and Feeds 2.5.1. The European Community 2.5.2. Federal Republic of Germany 2.5.3. Other Countries 2.5.4. International Organizations 2.5.5. Consumers 2.6. Industrial Irradiation of Foods and Feeds 2.6.1. Irradiation Plants 2.6.2. Costs 2.6.3. Present Level of Use 2.7. Inspection of Irradiated Foods