Etching the surface (activating the surface) of a halogenated polymer component with an electron beam generates a set of free radical sites in polymeric chains of the surface that sustain for at least 4 hours in an inert environment. The inert environment is provided by a noble gas, nitrogen, a static free space, and/or a vacuum. Items such as dynamic seals, static seals, gaskets, pump diaphragms, hoses, and o-rings all benefit from precursors made according to the technique.