Industrial Electron Accelerators
Industrial electron accelerators are used in various applications, including material processing, micro-chip manufacturing, sterilization of equipment, and food preservation. Electron beams can modify material properties and ensure the safety of various products.
Industrial Applications:
Material Modification
Electron beam accelerators are used to alter the physical and chemical properties of materials, such as polymers. This process, known as cross-linking, improves the strength, durability, and heat resistance of materials used in products like cables, automotive parts, and packaging materials. They are also applied to modify gemstone colours for commercial use.
Advanced Lithography
In the semiconductor industry, electron beam accelerators are instrumental in advanced lithography techniques. E-beam lithography is critical for manufacturing next-generation microchips with extreme precision.
Curing Coatings
Electron beams are used in the curing of coatings, inks, and adhesives, a process that is faster and more energy-efficient than traditional thermal methods. This application is widespread in industries such as printing, electronics, and automotive manufacturing.
Sterilization
Electron beams can sterilize surfaces in industrial settings, effectively eliminating pathogens without the need for chemical sterilants. This process maintains the sterility of products in medical manufacturing and food packaging.
Agriculture and Food Safety
Electron beams can be used for agricultural seed and soil disinfestation to improve crop health by eliminating pests and pathogens. In the food industry, they are used for food and spice irradiation to extend shelf life.
Books
Materials Modification Using Electron Beams – R. Mehnert
Articles
E-beam lithography for micro-/nanofabrication – M. Altissimo
Electron beam curing of composites in North America – A. Berejka
Is the Future of Moore’s Law in a Particle Accelerator? Linear accelerators could turbocharge EUV lithography – IEEE Spectrum
Electron beam irradiation processing for industrial and medical applications – Z. Ozer
Industrial Applications of Electron Accelerators – M. Cleland
Use of Electron Beams in Food Preservation – R. Bhat
Presentations
Industrial Applications of Electron Accelerators – IBA Technology Group
Podcasts/Videos
Electron Beam Technology Developments – The Undistilled Series
Additional Resources
IAEA Database of Industrial Irradiation Facilities: E-Beam and X-Ray
Electron Beam Irradiation Applications – CERN
Review of Industrial Accelerators and Their Applications – IAEA