Electron Beam-Induced Graft Polymerization of an Oligomeric Vinyl Phosphonate on Wool

Abstract

Electron beam-induced graft polymerization of the oligomeric vinyl phosphonate, Fyrol 76, and/or comonomers on wool substrate was studied using 0.5 to 10 Mrad irradiation doses. Polymerization was retarded by the presence of oxygen and moisture, and in all experiments the rate of polymerization slowed above 2 Mrad dose. Increasing concen trations of Fyrol and hydrogen donors on the wool minimized the effect of oxygen on polymerization. Comonomers had little effect on grafting of Fyrol but did decrease the degree of flame retardancy achieved compared to grafting of Fyrol alone. Wool with uptakes of greater than 5% polymerized Fyrol exhibited improved flame-retardant properties without significant loss in physical and esthetic properties.