Chain-scissioning
Chain scissioning or polymer degradation can also be achieved through electron beam processing. The effect of the electron beam can cause the degradation of polymers, breaking chains and therefore reducing the molecular weight. The chain scissioning effects observed in polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) have been used to created fine micropowders from scrap or off-grade materials.
Chain Scission is the breaking apart of molecular chains to produce required molecular sub-units from the chain. Electron Beam processing provides Chain Scission without the use of harsh chemicals usually utilized to initiate Chain Scission.
An example of this process is the breaking down of cellulose fibers extracted from wood in order to shorten the molecules, thereby producing a raw material that can then be used to produce biodegradable detergents and diet-food substitutes.
Teflon (PTFE) is also Electron Beam processed, allowing it to be ground to a fine powder for use in inks and as coatings for the automotive industry.
Read more about this topic: Electron Beam Processing