Advances in irradiated and conductive plastics

A brief account is given of the structure of plastics and the use of high-energy penetrating radiation to cause permanent cross linking. The physical, chemical and mechanical properties of some specially developed cross-linked plastics are described. Examples of their use are given: special shapes; heat resistance; fabrication of halogen-free plastics for electric cable insulation; high-temperature fluid resistance; leak detecting devices; fabrication of composite materials for screening cables against electromagnetic interference. (U.K.)