Gamma radiation induced graft copolymerization of acrylamide onto poly(vinyl chloride) films

Grafting of acrylamide (AAm) onto poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) films using gamma radiation has been carried out. The effects of different parameters on the graft yield have been investigated. These parameters include radiation dose, monomer concentration, solvent composition, types of inhibitors and acidity of the medium. In addition, the effects of the multifunctional monomers N,N′‐methylene allyl amide (MAAm) and 2,4,6‐triallyloxy‐1,3,5 triazine (TARA) on the graft yield have been investigated. It has been found that methanol/water mixture in the ratio (1:1) is the proper diluent mixture for enhancing the graft copolymerization process. The presence of sulphuric acid in the reaction medium adversely affects the graft yield more than acetic acid. The presence of MAAm in the reaction medium markedly increases the graft yield, while TARA has practically no effect on the grafting process. Grafted films have been characterized and evidence of grafting has been obtained using thermal and spectroscopic analysis together with swelling measurements in water. © 1998 SCI.