title: Formation of radicals by mechanical processes.
abstract: The application of e.s.r. spectroscopy to the study of radicals formed by mechanical means (grinding, shearing, bending, cutting, etc.) is discussed. Two mechanisms are considered, one being the homolytic breaking of main-chain bonds in polymers, and the other being charge-transfer (tribo-electric effect). The former is thought to occur for high polymers whilst the latter may be important for certain inorganic materials especially ionic solids. Specific examples are given for the generation of radicals by cutting finger nails and by grinding bone. In both cases, well-defined e.s.r. spectra were obtained for which identifications are offered. Possible implications of the mechanical formation of radicals in bone are considered.
authors.affiliation: Department of Chemistry, The University, Leicester.
authors.forename: M C
authors.initials: MC
authors.lastname: Symons
mesh_terms: D001842:Bone and Bones / Q000502:physiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D004578:Electron Spin Resonance Spectroscopy; D005609:Free Radicals; D006801:Humans; D009262:Nails / Q000032:analysis*; D011108:Polymers; D013314:Stress, Mechanical
chemical_list: D005609:Free Radicals; D011108:Polymers