Review of application of radiation technology in polymers industry and shortages in their services

Many radiation sources are utilized in various polymer processing technique (e.g/ Cross linking, Degradation, Grafting and Radiation curing). This technology is used to modify their physical and chemical properties by using ionizing radiation to improve their properties in order to add value to them (i.e. reducing undesirable contaminants). The most common radioisotopes used are Cobalt-60 (Co) and Caesium-137 (Cs); both are of γ-emitters. Other sources are electron beam accelerators and X-rays machines. To minimize hazards associated with the utilization of radiation based technologies in polymers industries, national radiation protection standards arc implemented. Utilization of radiation source is controlled by international and national rules and regulations (such as IAEA and NNRA). The use of radiation sources requires regular services. There are shortages in the needed radiation sources services in polymer industries within Nigeria. This paper will outline samples of radiation based technologies used in polymer industry and paying particular attention to shortages in the radiation services needed to safe handling of the sources that need to be rectified in order to encourage the new radiation sources users to utilize radiation based technologies in the Nigeria industry.