Photoinitiator-free acrylate nanocomposites have been cured by a VUV/UV lamp set-up.
Real-time ATR-FTIR studies on radiation curing showed high conversion.
Quantum chemical calculations indicate radical formation at wavelengths 位 < 267 nm.
2D correlation analysis of ATR-FTIR data supports mechanistic studies.
VUV/UV cured coatings show enhanced hardness and hydrophilic properties.