Ultraviolet activated substances

  • Thread starter Thread starter Ez4u2cit
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Ultraviolet
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on ultraviolet (UV) activated bonding agents that undergo polymerization upon exposure to UV light. The process involves the creation of free radicals, which initiate free radical polymerization of monomers, resulting in a solid material within three seconds. The mechanism relies on the specific energy levels of UV light, which is effective due to its short wavelength, while higher frequency radiation like X-rays is ineffective for this purpose.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polymerization processes
  • Knowledge of free radical chemistry
  • Familiarity with UV light properties and applications
  • Basic principles of radiation and electron resonance
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mechanisms of free radical polymerization
  • Explore the properties and applications of UV light in chemistry
  • Study the differences between UV light and X-ray radiation
  • Investigate the use of UV activated substances in dental applications
USEFUL FOR

Chemists, materials scientists, dental professionals, and anyone interested in the applications of UV light in polymerization processes.

Ez4u2cit
Messages
13
Reaction score
0
I recently purchased a bonding agent that is activated by an ultraviolet light (provided as part of the package). After three seconds of exposure to the UV light, the liquid substance turns rock hard. I believe they use the same process with modern dental fillings. Can anyone explain what is the physics/chemistry involved in this reaction.
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
Thanks. I was looking for the actual mechanism whereby the UV light induces the polymerization.
 
The UV light creates a free radical. Then the monomers polymerize via free radical polymerization.
 
So why UV light? Is this strictly because it is short wavelength/high energy. In which case, would x-rays work?
 
No, the frequencies of X-rays are too high. The freqeuncy of the incident radiation has to be resonant with the electrons in the bond.
 

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
4K