Characterization of MeV proton irradiated PS films

Poly(styrene) PS thin films were irradiated under vacuum with protons of three different energies and fluences. Radiation can induce polycyclic structures formation, as could be observed by UV and NMR. To support these observations, H-NMR and C, H concentration measurements were performed. The film becomes more rigid due to the possible formation of cyclic chemical groups and crosslinking. PS is known for its great stability to ionizing radiation and other degradation processes. Indeed, we studied the mass loss during bombardment, measuring the C and H concentration by proton scattering (back and forward). With dose up to 510 MGy, no mass loss was observed. Based on the results obtained in this study, a free radicals mechanism for PS is suggested, with the goal to explain the modifications induced by MeV proton irradiation.