Lifetime prediction of polyethylene in nuclear plants

A kinetic model is proposed to predict the lifetime and the thickness of oxidised layer of unstabilised and unfilled PE exposed to gamma irradiation at room temperature in air. The model is derived from a radical chain oxidation mechanism initiated both by the thermal decomposition of hydroperoxydes and the polymer radiolysis. It is in good agreement with the experimental results collected in the literature. (C) 2007 Published by Elsevier B.V.