EPR Analysis of Radiation-Induced Radicals in Propyl 4-Hydroxybenzoate: Influence of Microwave Power, Irradiation Dose, Temperature, and Storage Time
摘要
In this study, radicals formed in gamma-irradiated Propyl 4-hydroxybenzoate samples were thoroughly analyzed using EPR spectroscopy. The spectra revealed the presence of at least two distinct radical species, identified as Radical I (-CH2–ĊH₂-) and Radical II (-COOĊH-). Simulated spectra of these radicals showed excellent agreement with the experimental data, with contributions calculated as 49.5% and 50.5%, respectively. Analysis of signal intensities at varying microwave power levels showed a linear increase up to 10 mW, followed by saturation and decline at higher powers. Dose–response curves fitted well to power function, enabling accurate prediction of signal intensities within the 2–20 kGy dose range. Temperature-dependent studies indicated that the radicals are thermally stable up to 293 K but degrade completely above 323 K. Storage studies at room temperature over 3 months showed only a 33% decrease in signal intensity, indicating significant radical stability. These results suggest that persistent radicals formed upon gamma irradiation may pose challenges for gamma sterilization of P4-HB in pharmaceutical applications.