Diffusion theory of the post‐irradiation oxidation of polyethylene

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Abstract
The primary reaction of oxygen with irradiated polyethylene has been followed by observing the rapid disappearance of the ultraviolet absorption bands at 258 and 285 mμ, bands attributed to the allyl and dienyl free radicals. A mathematical theory based on diffusion equations has been developed by means of which a quantitative estimate of the total initial free‐radical concentration can be made. From the shape of the free‐radical decay curve it can be concluded that the initial oxygen–free‐radical reactions occur about three times as frequently in the amorphous regions as in the crystalline.

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