Gamma Radiation Assisted Grafting of Low Surface Energy Long Chain Molecule on Various Types of Polyolefin Elastomers (POE)

Surface modification of polymers can lead to changes of properties such as surface wettability, adhesion, bioactivity and biocompatibility. Here, a long chain, low surface energy monomer, docecyl methacrylate (DMA), which is difficult to graft by chemical mean was grafted onto three different types of ‘Engages’ (a polyolefin elastomer, POE) in ethanol/water medium by gamma radiation. Total dose and DMA concentration were optimized for the desired amount of low degree grafting (less than 15wt%). The surface wetting properties towards water were decreased for all Engage surfaces after grafting. Mechanical properties of the base polymers remained almost unchanged after grafting