The radiation-induced peroxidation of poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) in an aqueous solution

The radiation-induced peroxidation of poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) in its aqueous solution is reported. The amount of peroxides formed in PVP aqueous solution increased with radiation dose. The peroxides decomposed slowly at a low temperature. The molecular weight of PVP decreased with absorbed dose. The peroxidized PVP can function as initiators and crosslinkers for the syntheses of tough hydrogels.