Microhardness of electron beam irradiated polycarbonate

Abstract

Experimental study deals with the influence of beta radiation on the micromechanical properties of the surface layer of polycarbonate. When subjecting the polycarbonate to beta radiation, the structure as well as the surface layer show structural changes (crosslinking, degradation). The injected specimens were irradiated by doses of 0, 33, 66, 99, 132, 165 and 198 kGy. Irradiation of the specimens caused changes in the surface layer similar to the process of nitriding or cementation in metals. There was an improvement in some micromechanical properties of the surface layer of polycarbonate. The improvement/deterioration of micromechanical properties of surface layer of polycarbonate measured by the instrumented microhardness test is the content of this experimental study.