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

Abstract

The influence of beta radiation on the changes in the structure and selected properties (mechanical and thermal) polymers were proved. The specimens of high density polyethylene (HDPE) were made by injection moulding technology and irradiated by low doses of beta radiation (0, 33, 66, 99, 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 beta radiation are used.