The degradation in solid state of polyvinyl alcohol by gamma-irradiation

The viscosity of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) (Powder form) falls after irradiation. Gel does not occur after a dosage of above 1000 kGy. The G-values for scission under various conditions were measured. Irradiation of PVA brings about an increase in the intensity of a number of bands in the UV spectrum. It is shown that formation of unsaturated bonds and carbonyl groups occur under irradiation. The other one of radiolysis products is organic acid. After irradiation, the hydrolysis degree is unchanged.