Analysis of weathering of a thermoplastic polyester elastomer II. Factors affecting weathering of a polyether–polyester elastomer

Abstract

To compare the contribution of degradative factors to weathering of a thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE) photo-, thermal conditions and water were selected as the degradative factors. Experiments on photodegradation, thermal degradation and hydrolysis of TPEE were carried out. Spectral irradiation using sharp-cut filters with a xenon lamp, photodegradation under several temperature conditions and immersion in water during photoirradiation were also performed. The results of these experiments were compared with those of outdoor and accelerated weathering tests. The following conclusions were obtained under the experimental conditions: (1) a major factor of the degradation are ultraviolet rays below 310 nm; (2) an increase in temperature accelerates the rate of degradation reaction; and (3) the presence of water increases the amount of gel formation caused by cross-linking reaction.