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LOWILITE™ Hindered Amine Light Stabilizers

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.


 
Polymer System Performance Recommended HALS Grades Applications
Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE)
Low-density polyethylene (LDPE)
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
Standard LOWILITE™ 77,
LOWILITE™ 94
Consumer, building and construction materials, packaging, food contact packaging
Polypropylene (PP) Standard LOWILITE™ 77,
LOWILITE™ 94
Outdoor toys, building and construction materials
Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) Standard LOWILITE™ 77,
LOWILITE™ 62,
LOWILITE™ 94
High-performance sports
Polyurethane (PU) Standard/High LOWILITE™ 77 Automotive, furniture, consumer footwear, building and construction
Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU) Standard LOWILITE™ 92 Automotive, textiles, consumer materials, building and construction materials
Polyurethane (PU) Fiber Standard LOWILITE™ 62,
LOWILITE™ 77
Textiles, Consumer apparel, Lightweight ballistic composites
Summary

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.
 
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