Chemical aspects of implantation of high-energy ions into polymeric materials

Data on the study of the influence of accelerated ion beams on polymeric materials are generalised. The mechanisms of chemical processes occurring in a polymeric matrix upon ion implantation and resulting in a crucial change in the electrical conductivity, microhardness, hydrophilicity, and other characteristics of the irradiated polymer surface are discussed. The main applications of ion-implanted polymeric materials are considered.