Experimental and Simulation Research of Spatial Distribution of Carbonyl Groups in γ-Irradiated Polyethylene

Abstract

The dependence of the optical density in the peak of the characteristic IR absorption band of carbonyl groups on the thickness of polyethylene films irradiated with 60Co gamma quanta is experimentally determined. A method for calculating the distribution of CO groups relative to the frontal surfaces of the samples is proposed and justified. The calculated curves are discussed in terms of the generally accepted model of diffusion-controlled oxidation of polymers under the action of high energy radiation. Based on the data obtained, the conditions for the radiation modification of polymers are found, which make it possible to minimize the destructive effects of oxidation.