Method for cross-linking and stabilizing polymers which can be cross-linked radically

The invention relates to a method for cross-linking radically cross-linkable polymers and for stabilizing such polymers against oxidative and/or thermal decomposition. The method is developed so that rapid and economical cross-linking of radically cross-linkable polymers is obtained in the presence of oxidation inhibitors without adverse effects on the cross-linking process due to the oxidation inhibitor. For this purpose, the invention provides that the cross-linking is carried out in the presence of oxidation inhibitors, wherein the inhibition-active -OH and/or -NH functions are at least partially substituted by protective silyl- and/or silylene groups, the inhibitor molecule containing at least one Si-alkenyl group. The method according to the invention is suitable for use with radical as well as radiation-cross-linkable polymer.