Book excerpt: Atomic Radiation and Polymers examines the effects of radiation on polymer materials. The title deals with chemical changes that took place when polymers are exposed to radiation, and how these changes affect the physical properties of the polymers. The text first covers the interaction of radiation and matter, along with radiation sources and dosimetry. Next, the selection deals with the general properties of long chain polymers. The text also details the organic molecules and irradiated polymers. Chapters 22 to 24 tackle the radiation-induced changes in nuclear chain reaction, while Chapter 25 discusses the irradiation of polymers in solution where both direct and indirect effects occur. The next series of chapters details the theoretical aspects of reactions between the initial acts of ionization or excitation. The last two chapters cover the conductivity change at low radiation intensities, along with the data on radiation damage at very high intensities. The book will be of great interest to researchers and practitioners from the field of nuclear science and polymer technology.