Structural and Functional Properties of Ion Beam Modified Elastomers

Studies on the use of energetic ion beams for material modification have been initiated originally within the Manhattan project and have been continuously developed since then. The consecutive steps were devoted to the studies of ion implantation into semiconductors, metals, ceramics and, most recently, organic materials. One of the latest areas of applications is modification of elastomers, commonly known as rubbers. In the present paper the results of the studies on structural and functional properties of irradiated elastomers will be presented with the special emphasis on the materials used in aviation and military applications. Among the structural modifications, a massive loss of hydrogen atoms appears as the most peculiar characteristic of irradiated elastomers. Functional properties of irradiated rubbers: microhardness and friction coefficient, will be presented and application potential of the materials discussed.