Abstract

Spontaneous structural changes of a polymer that is its ageing due to thermal energy, radiation energy, chemical compounds and micro-organisms lasting at least several season cycles change the characteristics of polymer products. Changes of polymer characteristics found during ageing can be reversible or irreversible. The most substantial changes occur as the result of UV radiation. Tests of selected aliphatic diamides of terephthalic acid as stabilisers of low density polyethylene (LD-PE) used for the production of gardening films were performed. Accelerated ageing of films for a period of one year was done in the Xenotest Alpha type apparatus. Studies were made for 0.1 mm thick commercial films. Studies of selected mechanical properties of LD-PE films without stabilisers and of LD-PE sheeting containing an addition of one of the synthesised diamides of terephthalic acid or the standard Tinuvin 783 stabiliser were performed before and after the ageing process. To determine the effect of stabilisers on the ageing process of LD-PE films, thermogravimetric analysis was applied. This allowed us to determine the decomposition activation energy of the investigated films before and after the ageing process and the influence of stabilisers on the observed changes.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.