At one time the main interest in radiation resistant adhesives and sealants was in the nuclear power or the spacecraft industries. However, today there is still interest in radiation resistance, but it is coming from far different and more stable sectors of the economy - medical devices and food packaging.

This article will first look at the effects of radiation on the properties of adhesives and sealants in general, and then specifically consider the exposure of industrial joints as well as medical and food packaging devices. Structural and non-structural adhesives of all types will be considered since they are likely to be used in radiation resistant products ranging from space craft to home prepared meals.