Role of Polymer Stabilizers in Plastics and Rubber Products
Polymer stabilizers play a crucial role in improving the quality and longevity of plastic and rubber products. Without proper stabilization, polymers would undergo uncontrolled degradation when exposed to environmental factors like heat, light, oxygen and other chemicals. This can drastically reduce the service life of products made from polymers. Polymer stabilizers work to protect polymers from various degradation pathways and keep their physical properties intact for extended period of time.
Types of Polymer Degradation
There are several mechanisms through which Polymer Stabilizers can degrade over time when used in different applications and environments. The major types of degradation polymers undergo include:
Thermal Degradation: Elevated temperatures cause polymers to break down through chain scission reactions. This results in loss of mechanical properties as molecular weight decreases. Thermal stabilizers help prevent uncontrolled thermal degradation.
Photo-oxidation: Exposure to sunlight's UV rays can initiate oxidative reactions in polymers. Over time, this photo-oxidative degradation leads to embrittlement and cracking. UV absorbers are commonly used as light stabilizers.
Hydrolysis: In presence of moisture, certain reactive groups in polymers can undergo hydrolysis. This hydrolytic degradation results in chain scission and loss of performance characteristics in humid conditions. Antioxidants provide protection against hydrolysis.
Oxidative Degradation: Oxygen in air or processing can cause oxidative degradation through free radical reactions. This causes polymer chains to break down resulting in discoloration and reduced mechanical properties on long-term use. Antioxidants terminate radical reactions and inhibits oxidation.
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