Radiation chemistry

This book gives a progress report on the many and original contributions of
radiation chemistry to the fundamental knowledge of the vast domain of
chemical reactions and its applications. Radiation chemistry techniques indeed
make it possible to elucidate detailed physicochemical mechanisms in inorganic
and organic chemistry (including in space) and in biochemistry. Moreover, this
comprehension is applied in materials science to precisely control syntheses
by radiation, such as radiopolymerisation, radiografting, specific treatment
of surfaces (textiles, paintings, inks, etc.), synthesis of complex
nanomaterials, degradation of environmental pollutants and radioresistance of
materials for nuclear reactors. In life sciences, the study of the effects of
radiation on biomacromolecules (DNA, proteins, lipids) not only permits the
comprehension of normal or pathological biological mechanisms, but also the
improvement of our health. In particular, many advances in cancer
radiotherapy, in the radioprotection of nuclear workers and the general
population, as well as in the treatment of diseases and the radiosterilization
of drugs, could be obtained thanks to this research. Abundantly illustrated
and written in English by top international specialists who have taken care to
render the subjects accessible, this work will greatly interest those curious
about a scientific field that is new to them and students attracted by the
original and multidisciplinary aspects of the field. At a time when radiation
chemistry research is experiencing spectacular development in numerous
countries, this book will attract many newcomers to the field.