Precision Control of the Shape and Size of Crazing in Polyethylene Using a Focused Electron Beam and Tensile Strain

抄録

The nuanced interplay among focused electron beam（FEB）irradiation, tensile strain, and the ensuing craze development in polyethylene（PE）is examined. We designed and implemented rectangular irradiation patterns. The number, shape, and size of irradiation points were systematically varied, yielding intriguing patterns with distinct dimensions. In this study, irradiation was performed at an accelerating voltage of 5 kV, an electron beam current of 2 × 10⁻¹⁰ A, an irradiation time of 80 ms/point, and precisely controlled nominal tensile strains. The results demonstrated that FEB irradiation drastically influences the polymer microstructure and confirmed the formation of a rectangular craze. By altering the irradiation patterns from dots to rectangles, we successfully controlled the shape of the craze to realize a rectangular shape. At a nominal tensile strain of 15%, a distinct craze was observed, supporting the hypothesis that polymer irregularities influence craze formation as an effect of FEB irradiation. Size control experiments illustrated a linear correlation between the nominal strain and craze size. A key breakthrough was achieved in multiple craze control using FEB irradiation patterns. This research thus advances the understanding of precision-controlled craze formation, offering new possibilities for engineering materials with specific properties.