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Radiation processing is a convenient tool for imparting desirable effects in polymeric materials. In recent years, natural polymers have been investigated with renewed interest because of their unique characteristics, such as inherent biocompatibility, biodegradability and easy availability. Traditionally, the commercial exploitation of natural polymers such as carrageenans, alginates or starch has been based, to a large extent, on empirical knowledge. But now, research is being fuelled because applications of natural polymers are being sought in knowledge-demanding areas such as pharmacy and biotechnology. This book reports selected success stories concerning radiation processed natural polymers and applications of their derivatives in the health care products industries and agriculture. This publication will be of interest to individuals at nuclear institutions worldwide that have R&D programmes into the applications of radiation processing technologies. The book will also be of interest to managers and decision makers in industry (health care, food and agriculture), helping them to understand the important role radiation processing technology plays for polysaccharides.
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