Bonding is increasingly being used, and it is an ever-evolving method for creating unbreakable bonds. The strength of adhesive bonds determines, to a significant extent, the possible applications of this technology and is influenced by many factors. In addition to the type of adhesive used, the characteristics of the surface layers play a significant role; therefore, significant attention is paid to their adjustment and modification. Radiation crosslinking is one of the most important methods for modifying polymer properties. Currently, the most frequently used type of radiation for polymer crosslinking is beta minus (β-) radiation, which affects not only mechanical but also surface properties, chemical and temperature resistance, and surface layer characteristics of polymers. This study investigated the effect of β- radiation on the surface layer properties of low-density polyethylene (LDPE), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), and polypropylene (PP) and the effects of surface-layer modification on the ultimate tensile strength of bonded joints. Based on the results, we concluded that β- radiation significantly changes the properties of the tested surface layers, increases the surface energy, and improves the adhesiveness of bonds. Consequently, the final strength of the LDPE, HDPE, and PP bonds increases significantly.
Keywords: adhesion; beta radiation; bonded joints; free surface energy; oxidation; polyethylene; polypropylene; radiation crosslinking; wetting contact angle.