Polypropylene (PP) is a thermoplastic polymer that is widely used in a variety of applications due to its excellent strength, durability, and chemical resistance. However, one major drawback of PP is its susceptibility to degradation caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In order to protect PP from UV damage, we use UV stabilisers to the polymer during the manufacturing process of our products and tiles.
What are UV Stabilisers?
UV stabilisers are molecules that absorb or scatter UV radiation, preventing it from reaching the polymer chain and causing damage. These molecules can be divided into two main categories:
- UV absorbers and;
- UV screens.
What are UV Absorbers?
UV absorbers are molecules that absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, preventing it from reaching the polymer chain. These molecules are typically added to the polymer in small amounts, typically on the order of a few percent. The most common UV absorbers used in PP are benzotriazoles and hindered amine light stabilisers (HALS).
Benzotriazoles are a group of UV absorbers that are highly effective at absorbing UV radiation in the range of 290-380 nm. They are typically added to PP in amounts of 0.1-0.5%. These molecules are known to be effective at preventing UV-induced discolouration and degradation of PP.
Hindered amine light stabilisers (HALS) are another group of UV absorbers that are highly effective at absorbing UV radiation in the range of 290-380 nm. They are typically added to PP in amounts of 0.1-0.5%. HALS are known to be effective at preventing UV-induced discolouration and degradation of PP, and also have the added benefit of being non-toxic and non-volatile.
What are UV Screens?
UV screens are molecules that scatter UV radiation, preventing it from reaching the polymer chain. These molecules are typically added to the polymer in large amounts, typically on the order of several percent. The most common UV screens used in PP are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
Titanium dioxide is a UV screen that is highly effective at scattering UV radiation in the range of 290-380 nm. It is typically added to PP in amounts of 2-5%. Titanium dioxide is known to be effective at preventing UV-induced discolouration and degradation of PP, and also has the added benefit of being a white pigment, which can improve the aesthetics of the finished product.
Zinc oxide is another UV screen that is highly effective at scattering UV radiation in the range of 290-380 nm. It is typically added to PP in amounts of 2-5%. Zinc oxide is known to be effective at preventing UV-induced discolouration and degradation of PP, and also has the added benefit of being a white pigment, which can improve the aesthetics of the finished product.
key Benefits
The use of UV stabilisers in PP can significantly improve the durability and longevity of our tiles. By preventing UV-induced discolouration and degradation, UV stabilisers can extend the useful life of our products, saving costs and reducing the need for replacement. Additionally, the use of UV stabilisers can also improve the aesthetics of the finished product, making it more attractive making the colours more vibrant.
Conclusion
In conclusion, UV stabilisers are an essential component in the manufacturing of polypropylene products. They are molecules that absorb or scatter UV radiation, preventing it from reaching the polymer chain and causing damage. UV absorbers, such as benzotriazoles and hindered amine light stabilisers (HALS), and UV screens, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, are commonly used to protect polypropylene from UV damage. The use of UV stabilisers can significantly improve the durability and longevity of polypropylene products, making them more cost-effective and attractive to consumers.