Electron beam processing can modify properties by creating controlled degradation – or chain scission – in certain materials. For example, PTFE can be processed to create a micropowder that can be brought to a specific particle size. Specific particle sizes are increasingly useful in products such as inks, coatings and lubricants.
Polymer crosslinking and chain scissioning are related but actually opposite processes. Learn more about the differences between crosslinking and scissioning in our blog article on this topic.
Ingredients can be chains scissioned to make them more soluble for solution applications.
Chain scission via electron beam also modifies polypropylene, resulting in a more homogenized melt flow.
You can learn more about the 3 types of polymer modification (crosslinking, branching, and chain scissioning) in this E-BEAM Crash Couse video:
Everyday Applications
- Injection molding (reduced warping)
- Films (improved opticals)
- Fiber/textiles
- Pharmaceuticals
- Packaging
- Cellulosic materials
- Natural rubbers
Why it Matters to You:
| No harmful chemicals | Environmentally friendly |
| Increased solubility | Controlled degradation |