Principles of exposure of polymer materials to heat, moisture and UV-radiation and study of their properties by full factorial experiment: A review

Abstract

The work is dedicated to the effects of climatic factors on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in terms of changes in the structure and interaction of polymer molecules. The kinetic concept of the strength of PET has been developed, and the factors influencing the strength have been considered. Effects of moisture, thermal oxidative destruction, and UV-radiation on the structure of PET have been investigated. Polymers’ properties predicting, durability and their computer modeling have been analyzed. A model of changes in PET properties under the influence of temperature, moisture and UV-radiation was constructed using the methods of a full factorial experiment. It has been shown that in the initial period of exposure, adsorption and diffusion of moisture, hydrolysis and surface oxidation occur; prolonged and constant exposure to UV-radiation break the bonds formed by moisture, then the C–C and C–O bonds in the PET molecule brake and new intermolecular bonds are formed. In the amorphous state of PET, the breaking of bonds in the polymer chain and the formation of bonds between two adjacent polymer chains, the formation of more densely packed nodes, the destruction of the polymer and its aging, are equally probable. Temperature has a secondary effect, facilitating both hydrolysis and oxidation and polymer degradation.