Säteilykevennetty

Säteilykevennetty is a Finnish term that translates to "radiation-tempered" or "radiation-softened" in English. It refers to a process used in material science and engineering, particularly in the context of polymers and other organic materials. The term describes a method where materials are subjected to ionizing radiation, such as gamma rays or electron beams, to alter their physical properties.

The primary effect of this radiation treatment is often a reduction in the material's cross-linking density. In many polymers, radiation can break chemical bonds, leading to a decrease in the network structure that gives the material its strength and rigidity. This results in a material that is more flexible, less brittle, and easier to process. For example, a rigid plastic might become more pliable after undergoing the säteilykevennetty process.

This technique is employed to improve the workability of certain plastics, making them suitable for applications where flexibility is required. It can also be used to control the viscosity of polymer melts, which is crucial for manufacturing processes like extrusion and injection molding. The specific dosage and type of radiation are carefully controlled to achieve the desired level of property modification without causing excessive degradation of the material. Säteilykevennetty finds applications in various industries, including packaging, automotive components, and medical devices, where tailored material properties are essential.