Gamma-ray irradiation-induced variations in structural and electrical properties of PVP neutral polymer in water

The purpose of this study was to improve polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) electrical conductivity by means of gamma irradiation for a dosimetric application. PVP was irradiated with various doses of γ radiation and dissolved in water to investigate its structural, optical, and electrical characteristics. Electron paramagnetic resonance measurements (EPR) depicted the presence of free radical (H^·). FTIR and UV–visible spectra revealed a structural deformation in the post-irradiated polymer (PVP*) through chain scission. In addition, the gap and Urbach energy were investigated and discussed. The obtained results of electrical conductivity show an exponential behavior indicating a character of a pseudo-polyelctrolyte. The pH measurements revealed an acidic character of PVP*.