Present and Future Applications of Industrial Radiation Processing With High-Energy Electrons and X-rays

摘要

Industrial applications of radiation processing with high-energy electrons and X-rays began about sixty years ago. Since that time, a variety of applications have evolved, which have stimulated the development of appropriate high-power electron accelerators and X-ray generators. Established applications include the modification of polymeric materials, the sterilization of health-care supplies and the preservation of foods. Future applications can reduce air and water pollution, cure composite materials for lighter, automobile, aircraft and spacecraft structures and convert wood and cellulosic materials for chemical processes. Commercial uses of these future applications could be expedited by governmental support for large-scale facilities which can demonstrate the effectiveness and reliability of new radiation processing technologies.