A strong change in morphology affects the mechanical behaviour of weathered polymers negatively. This results in embrittlement of the polymer. Some examples of weathered products are shown here Because of oxygen diffusion limitation only the surface layer will degrade. Often, the embrittlement of the surface layer is described by the existence of a notch. In practice plastics products used outdoors are UV-stabilized.
Stabilization prevents the occurence of the chemical reactions.
Last modified on 6 November 1997 .