Effect of high beta irradiation on mechanical properties of surface layer of injection moulded low density polyethylene (LDPE)

Abstract

The influence of high doses of beta radiation on the changes in the structure and selected properties (mechanical and thermal) polymers were proved. Using high doses of beta radiation for low density polyethylene (LDPE) and its influence on the changes of mechanical properties of surface layer has not been studied in detail so far. The specimens of low density polyethylene (LDPE) were made by injection moulding technology and irradiated by high doses of beta radiation (0, 132, 165 and 198 kGy). The changes in the microstructure and micromechanical properties of surface layer were evaluated using FTIR, WAXS and instrumented nanohardness test. The results of the measurements showed considerable increase in mechanical properties (indentation hardness, indentation elastic modulus) when the high doses of beta radiation are used. © 2016, MM publishing Ltd. All rights reserved.