UV-Absorbers and Light Stabilizers

Exposure to sunlight and some artificial lights can have adverse effects on the integrity and the durability of plastics articles. UV radiation can break down the chemical bonds in a polymer. This process is called photodegradation and ultimately causes cracking, chalking, color changes and the loss of physical properties such as impact strength, tensile strength, elongation and other properties. To counteract these damaging effects on plastics performance, a broad range of UV stabilizers designed to solve the degradation problems associated with exposure to sunlight have been developed. They can be categorized into two general classifications: Ultraviolet Light Absorbers (UVA) Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers (HALS)