Electron beam irradiation of molten polysulfone

Abstract Polysulfone (PSU) is an amorphous thermoplastic polymer which is frequently used in automotive, electrical, electronic and medical parts because of the excellent mechanical properties and radiation resistance. Heat stability of polysulfone is also quite high compared to other polymeric materials. Nevertheless, it is desirable to improve heat stability and shrinkage behaviour for some special high performance applications. Therefore, influence of electron beam irradiation at different temperatures on structure of polysulfone was investigated with the goal of generating a molecular network by crosslinking. Crosslinking should enhance the thermo-mechanical properties. From such an electron beam irradiation treatment an increase of molar masses up to the formation of a gel results. Furthermore, electron beam irradiation in the molten state is more effective than irradiation below the glass transition temperature.