Effects of Homogeneous Low Voltage Electron Beam Irradiation on Adhesive Strength of Polycarbonate (PC) Sheet Covered with Nylon6 Film

The effects of homogeneous low voltage electron beam irradiation (HLEBI) on the adhesive strength of different polymers without glue but with sterilization were investigated. HLEBI at more than 0.043MGy generated adhesive force and enhanced fracture strain at the interface in polycarbonate (PC) composites covered with nylon6 film. HLEBI at less than 0.130MGy increased the elasticity (d =d") and fracture stress of the composites. Although it was far below that of commercial pure metal, the elasticity (2GPa) of composites irradiated from 0.130 to 0.216MGy was very close to that of nylon6. HLEBI from 0.216 to 0.432MGy increased the fracture strain of the composites, whereas it decreased elasticity (d =d"). Based on the results, HLEBI from 0.130 to 0.432MGy apparently maintained the high fracture strength of the composites. To investigate the influence of EB irradiation on adhesive strength, electron spin resonance (ESR) signals related to dangling bonds were observed. Since HLEBI generated dangling bonds in both PC and nylon6, the dangling bonds probably served as reactive and bonding sites for each polymer at the interface. Results indicated that HLEBI enhanced the adhesive strength of the composites, therefore, it was concluded that HLEBI was probably a useful tool for quickly joining the different polymers. [doi:10.2320/matertrans.MRA2008489]