The method for the creation of surface-grafting polymeric materials is
gaining recognition because it makes it possible to create novel materials from wellknown, commercially available polymers with desirable bulk properties like elasticity,
permeability, and thermal stability, combined with advantageous, newly tailored
surface properties like adhesion, biomimicry, and biocompatibility. Since it produces
radicals on most substrates, ionizing radiation is one of the most effective techniques
for creating graft copolymers. This process involves the use of radiation, such as UV,
plasma, Electron Beam (EB), and γ-rays, to modify polymer substrates. The
development of RIGG in pharmaceuticals focuses on the covalent immobilization of
biocides to various polymer surfaces. Grafting can now be done under control to
produce surfaces with specific and well-defined features. The application of radiation
has entered a new era of grafting with the development of living free-radical
polymerization techniques. The technique is applied to drug delivery systems, where
grafted polymers provide controlled release profiles and targeted delivery, improving
therapeutic efficacy and patient compliance. In biomedical applications, grafted
polymers are utilized to create biocompatible surfaces for medical implants, ensuring
reduced risk of infection and improved integration with biological tissues. Radiationgrafted wound dressings are developed for their enhanced antimicrobial activity and
accelerated healing properties. The chapter delves into the scientific principles
underlying RIGG, detailing the mechanisms by which radiation induces grafting and
the factors influencing the process. The chapter then delves into the specific
applications of radiation-induced green grafting in the pharmaceutical and healthcare
industries.
Keywords: Antimicrobial surfaces, Biomedical device, Green grafting, Healthcare products, Radiation-induced green grafting.
