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An apparatus for measuring degradation reactions of polymer samples by flash irradiation was constructed for the investigation of fast degradation mechanisms of polymers in vacuum or in various atmospheres. The essential part of the apparatus is a sample tube surrounded by a helical xenon flash lamp stored in a cylindrical mirror, with an optical filter system, if necessary. A high-voltage capacitor bank charges the flash lamp, which is discharged in turn at triggering by high frequency current. Polymer sample films were degraded by a number of flash irradiations repeated in sequence, in vacuum or in an inert gas. Degradation products were analyzed by a highly sensitive gas chromatograph with a hydrogen flame ionization director. Typical results on flash degradation of polymethyl methacrylate in vacuum and in nitrogen are shown. (Author)