RADIATION-INDUCED GRAFT-POLYMERIZATION AS A METHOD FOR SURFACE MODIFICATION OF POLYMERS

This paper reviews the results of the studies on surface modification of various polymers by radiation-induced graft polymerization. Various promising fields of research, using radiation-induced graft polymerization for surface modification of polymers, are discussed. These areas involve regulation of the hydrophilic-hydrophobic, and adhesive properties of a surface, preparation of polymeric adsorbents, surface modification of polymers for medical and biotechnological applications, and preparation of polymer carriers for catalysts. Most attention is paid to recent studies. Basic concepts, concerning the mechanism which controls the formation of modified surface layers, and the structure of these layers are considered.