UV stability.
Outdoor service.
Sunlight exposure.
UV resistance material reference. Outdoor service life depends on UV stability. Stabilized plastics, paints, anodize. Service life predictions.
Key principles.
UV-stable
Aluminum, steel, stainless: UV doesn't affect.
20+ year
Carbon-black plastics most UV-stable.
5-15 year
UV-stabilizer additives extend plastic life.
1-3 year
Standard ABS, PP, PE 1-3 years before degradation.
Powder coat
Powder coat 20+ year warranty for outdoor.
UV-stable
Type II decorative anodize UV-stable. 30+ year.
FAQ
Why does UV degrade plastic?
UV photons break polymer chains. Color fades, embrittlement, cracking.
Stabilizer types?
HALS (hindered amine), UV absorbers, antioxidants. Combined for best stability.
Outdoor lifetime?
Standard plastic 1-3 year. Stabilized 5-15 year. Carbon-black 20+ year.
Coatings vs stabilizers?
Coating provides barrier. Stabilizer reduces damage. Coating + stabilizer best.
Testing UV stability?
ASTM G154 (UV-A fluorescent). G155 (xenon arc). Accelerated weathering.
Outdoor color stability?
Pantone-matched powder + UV-stable pigments best. Some colors (red) less UV-stable.