Did You Know That Artificial Light Can Be Just As Damaging To Polymers As The Sun?
Ultraviolet radiation (UV radiation) from any source breaks down chemical bonds, causing cracking, chalking, color changes, and degradation of physical properties. Polyolefin products absorb ultraviolet light due to oxidation formed during processing or by impurities present in the system. Engineering resins and elastomers absorb light because of their intrinsic chemical structure.
UV damage can also occur from artificial lighting, such as carbon arc, xenon arc, metal halides, fluorescent bulbs, and lamps. Sunlight and artificial light sources yield different spectra and energies. Photooxidation degradation causes various physical and mechanical breakdowns in polyolefins, such as chalking, cracking or material becoming brittle, and external color change.
What Are Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers (HALS)?
Hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS) are one of two methods of combating UV degradation in polymers. HALS are activated during light exposure by scavenging free radicals created by photooxidation. HALS additives protect the bulk and surface of the polymer depending on the thickness. Hindered amine light stabilizers enhance the performance of polyolefin plastics.
Why LOWILITE™ hindered amine light stabilizers?
The SI Group LOWILITE™ portfolio of hindered amine light stabilizers is regenerated rather than consumed during the stabilization process. Their high molecular weight means they do not migrate easily and can provide extreme long-term thermal and light stability.
Benefits:
Long-term performance
Outstanding color retention in pigmented systems
Broad food contact approvals
Resistance to acidic conditions
High molecular weight
Explore the LOWILITE™ HALS portfolio and its compatibility below for various end-market applications.
LOWILITE™ 62 is a UV stabilizer with a low melting range that is ideal for polyolefins, styrenics, unsaturated polyesters, acrylics, PVC, and elastomers. It is also suitable for systems containing high loadings of carbon black.
LOWILITE™ 77 HALS can be used alone or in combination with oligomeric HALS and offers superior performance compared to traditional UVAs and nickel-containing stabilizers.
UV light from both the sun and artificial sources can be extremely damaging to the longevity of polymers. LOWILITE™ hindered amine light stabilizer additives protect the polymer from free radicals formed during outdoor or indoor light exposure. Talk to an expert today about which LOWILITE™ grade works best for your application, polymer system, and processing conditions.
