Evaluation of UV-Degraded Plastics by FTIR and Dynamic Ultra Micro Hardness Tester

User Benefits

�- It is possible to grasp the changes in the state of plastics due to ultraviolet (UV) irradiation and evaluate weathering resistance and other properties by an analysis using multiple instruments. �- Changes in the chemical structure of plastics by degradation can be confirmed by using the Plastic Analyzer plastic analysis system. � - Changes in the hardness of plastics by degradation can be evaluated by using the DUH-210 plastic hardness analyzer.

Introduction

Plastic products used outdoors in automotive parts, building materials, industrial products, and agricultural products are degraded over time as a result of exposure to sunlight (mainly ultraviolet radiation), rain, and temperature changes. Therefore, it is necessary to select appropriate materials which can be used safely, considering the use period, use environment, and weathering resistance. Understanding the condition and life of plastics that have been degraded by external factors (light and heat) is useful in the selection of additives (antioxidants and bulking agents) to be used in plastic products and in the development of high performance functional materials. In this article, we evaluated the ultraviolet (UV) degradation of plastics that are frequently used in automotive parts. Changes in the chemical structure of the plastic surface under UV irradiation were evaluated by using a Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR), and changes in hardness were evaluated with a dynamic ultra micro hardness tester. The results are presented in the following.

March 4, 2021 GMT