Effect of temperature and a crosslinking promoter on the γ‐radiolysis of a perfluoro‐elastomer

Methods of promoting the radiation‐induced cross linking of poly(tetrafluoro‐ethylene‐ co ‐perfluoromethyl vinyl ether) (TFE/PMVE) have been investigated. Greater control of the crosslinking and chain‐scission reactions was achieved by varying the radiolysis temperature. This was attributed to temperature affecting the mobilities of reactive species such as polymeric free radicals. These reactive species are precursors to radiation‐induced cross links and chain‐ends. Analysis of the sol/gel behaviour, tensile properties and FTIR indicated that the optimum temperature for the radiation crosslinking of TFE/PMVE, at a dose of 150 kGy, was 263 K. This temperature was 10 K below the glass transition temperature. Incorporation of 1 wt% triallyl isocyanurate (TAIC) greatly amplified the radiation crosslinking of TFE/PMVE. The dose for gelation was decreased by 70%, and the additive imparted superior mechanical properties compared to the neat irradiated TFE/PMVE. Electron spin resonance (ESR) measurements showed higher radical yields at 77 K with the 1 wt% TAIC, indicating that the crosslinking promoter was acting as a radical trap. © 1999 Society of Chemical Industry