This review is divided into two main parts: The first presents a basic description of the different photopolymerization processes generally in use; the second discusses photopolymerization reactions. The main existing and potential applications of light curing technologies both in traditional industry areas and in newly emerging high tech sectors are identified in Photoinitiated Polymerisation: Theory and Applications.

The main applications of photoinitiated polymerization occur in the field of radiation curing (particularly UV curing). The benefits of such applications may include rapid curing, the elimination of pollution and solvents encountered in thermal drying technologies, versatility, enhanced product durability, low energy requirements, low temperature operation, and small space requirements. Radiation curing may be encountered in many industries and product areas, including paints, coatings and varnishes, inks, adhesives, photoresists for microelectronics, and more.

From the Introduction: “A photoinduced polymerisation reaction is usually considered as a chain reaction where the initiation step is produced by a photochemical event. Accordingly, the liquid monomer formulation exposed to UV or visible light is converted into a solid polymer. If the monomer contains more than one reactive function, a crosslinked polymer network is readily produced. Photopolymerisation is different from photo-crosslinking where every chain propagation step requires the absorption of a photon of light...”

Rapra Review Reports contain a brief overview of the topic, followed by extensive references, with abstracts, from the Rapra database. They serve as condensed, valuable research tools for scientists, technologists, and other researchers working with rubber or plastics materials.

Table of Contents:

Introduction

Photoinitiators and Photosensitisers

Monomers and Oligomers: Reactions and Applications

Conclusions: The Potential of UV Curing

Additional References

References for the Rapra Database

Index