Radiation processing and prospects in polymers and organics

Ionizing radiation used for industrial applications in the field of polymers and organics are mainly accelerated electrons. Installations using γ-rays exists but are of higher costs. Well established technologies, with large scale production are linked to crosslinking, curing and sterilization. Electronic devices and resists are products with high added value but low volume production. Though considered as promising, other applications (degradation, polymerization, grafting) have only a small commercial production. Ion beams are not presently used and applications are still on the laboratory scale. Though a lot of work is left to be done, these radiations appear to be a very promising tool especially in the field of membranes. A lot of original applications are expected from the use of accelerated ion beams that will increase greatly in the next years. (author). 31 refs