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Modification of Textile Fiber Properties by Radiation-Induced Graft Polymerization (Annual Report, November 1, 1961 - October 31, 1962)

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/4747952· OSTI ID:4747952
 [1];  [1]
  1. North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC (United States)

Studies of vapor-phase graft polymerization to textile fibers by means of gamma radiation were conducted in the following areas: (1) variables affecting the rate of grafting, (2) modification of fiber properties by grafting, and (3) the kinetics of vapor-phase graft polymerization. Water, methanol, and acetic acid were found to be the best sensitizers for grafting to cotton, rayon, nylon, and wool. Post-irradiation experiments show that water is not essential during irradiation, but was necessary during the polymerization reaction. An increase in graft polymerization was obtained by the use of intermittent irradiation. Oxygen concentration above a threshold level exhibits a marked inhibition on the grafting of acrylonitrile to the various fibers. Increases in temperature generally results in decreased grafting effects. No marked changes in strength, elongation, modulus, or proportional limit resulted from grafting. The grafting of styrene gave nylon and polypropylene increased weathering resistance, but did not affect the weathering of cotton. The rate of diffusion of monomer and the kinetics of the reaction both play a significant part in the vapor-phase technique. Post-irradiation grafting experiments show that oxygen decreased the number of available radicals in acetate yarn, but had little effect on those in nylon, polypropylene, and polyester.

Research Organization:
North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
US Atomic Energy Commission (AEC); Burlington Industries; Cone Mills Corporation; Reeves Bros. , Inc.; J. P. Stevens and Company, Inc.
NSA Number:
NSA-17-016041
OSTI ID:
4747952
Report Number(s):
NCSC--2477-10
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English