Radiation polymerization and crosslinking: A viable alternative for synthesis of porous functional polymers

We have earlier shown the possibility of preparation of crosslinked porous polymers by ionizing radiation-initiated reactions, and here we give an overview of the irradiation conditions-porous properties relationship for several methacrylate type copolymers. We illustrate the possible applications by an environment-friendly chromatographic column using water as eluent and a chemically stable scintillating polymer with excellent ion-binding capacity for possible continuous monitoring of radioactivity in natural waters. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.