Polymer materials and component evaluation in acidic-radiation environments

Polymeric materials used for cable/wire insulation, electrical connectors, O-rings, seals, and in critical components such as motors, level switches a nd resistive thermo-devices. were evaluated under accelerated degradation c onditions in combined radiation-oxidative elevated-temperature acidic-vapor (nitric/oxalic) environments relevant to conditions in isotope processing facilities. Experiments included the assessment of individual materials suc h as PEEK, polyimides, polyolefin based cable insulation, EPDM rubbers, var ious epoxy systems, commercial caulking materials as well as some functiona l testing of components. We discuss how to conduct laboratory experiments t o simulate such complex hostile environments, describe some degradation eff ects encountered, and evaluate the impact on appropriate material and compo nent selection. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd.