Photostabilization of Poly(vinyl Chloride)A Survey of Recent Studies

All commercial organic polymers will degrade in air when exposed to sunlight, although there is a very wide range of photo-oxidative susceptibilities. It is usually the absorption of near ultraviolet (UV) wavelengths which leads to bond-breaking reactions and the concomitant loss of useful physical properties and/or discoloration. Exposure to sunlight can have adverse effects on the useful great interest of plastic products. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation can break down the chemical bonds in a polymer. Photo-degradation causes cracking, chalking, color changes and the loss of physical properties. Poly(vinyl chloride) is one of the most extensive thermoplastic materials in the world due to its valuable properties, wide applications, high chemical resistance, barrier properties and low cost. During processing, storage and utilization, PVC degrades as it is exposed to high temperatures, high mechanical stresses or ultraviolet light.