The Influence of Oxygen and Water on the After-Effect in Cellulose Degradation by Gamma-Rays

Abstract

Wood cellulose (0.26% moisture) was exposed to 102,000 r of gamma-radiation from Co60. When irradiated samples were stored in the presence of dry oxygen or air, a large after-effect occurred (progressive decrease in intrinsic viscosity). In the absence of oxygen or presence of water vapor, there was no after-effect. Oxygen initiates and water can terminate the after-effect.