Abstract
Weathered surfaces of intact polymer films on standard test substrates have been characterized with photoacoustic detection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with minimum sample preparation. Vibrational spectra were obtained from the surface of fully formulated and pigmented paint samples aged in Florida testing, and in QUV and carbon arc accelerated weathering environments. Single- and two-component polyester urethane resin films on polybutyleneterephthalate-polycarbonate-rubber substrate were examined to a depth of approximately 8–12 μm. The samples were analyzed for differences in chemical changes occurring during natural and accelerated testing. Spectra for these samples were compared with those obtained by attenuated total reflection (ATR) infrared spectroscopy, which requires time-consuming sample preparation. Photoacoustic detection infrared is applicable for heavily pigmented and opaque samples which are difficult to examine by conventional transmission or reflection techniques. The essence of photoacoustic detection in a Fourier transform infrared experiment is discussed.
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