AbstractThe transformations of the polymorphic forms of polybutene‐1 (I,II,III) were studied by infrared spectroscopy. Attenuated total reflectance spectra demonstrate that the II → I transformation occurs initially and most rapidly on the film surfaces. Electron irradiation experiments showed the II → I conversion can be suppressed by irradiation. The degree of suppression was dependent on the irradiation dose. Comparison of spectra on irradiation in air and vacuum indicate that radiation‐produced radicals are scavenged by oxygen, preventing intermolecular crosslinking and allowing normal expansion of the helix during transformation. In addition, remolding an irradiated sample of II caused immediate conversion to I rather than its return to II as was noted when unirradiated samples are remolded. These observations are related to certain conformational changes in the molecular structure.