We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
A Review of Weathering Studies in Plastics and Biocomposites—Effects on Mechanical Properties and Emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)
Summary
This review summarizes how plastics and bio-based composite materials degrade when exposed to sunlight, heat, and moisture over time. Researchers found that weathering causes surface cracking, loss of strength, and release of volatile organic compounds, with different polymer types degrading through distinct chemical pathways. The study highlights that understanding these degradation processes is important for predicting the environmental impact and lifespan of both conventional and bio-based plastic materials.
Polymeric materials undergo degradation when exposed to outdoor conditions due to the synergistic effects of sunlight, air, heat, and moisture. The degradation can lead to a decline in mechanical properties, fading, surface cracking, and haziness, attributed to the cleavage of the polymer chains and oxidation reactions. Accelerated weathering testing is a useful technique to evaluate the comparative photodegradation of materials within a reasonable timeframe. This review gives an overview of the different degradation mechanisms occurring in conventional plastics and bio-based materials. Case studies on accelerated weathering and its effect on the mechanical properties of conventional plastics and biocomposites are discussed. Different techniques for analysing volatile organic emissions (VOCs) have been summarized and studies highlighting the characterization of VOCs from aged plastics and biocomposites after aging have been cited.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Changes in Wood Plastic Composite Properties After Natural Weathering and Potential Microplastic Formation
Researchers studied how wood-plastic composite materials break down during two years of outdoor weathering in Latvia. They found that the composites developed surface cracks and chemical changes relatively quickly, with exposed wood particles suggesting the release of microplastic fragments. The findings challenge the perception of wood-plastic composites as environmentally friendly alternatives, since they may contribute to microplastic pollution over time.
Environmental Degradation of Plastic Composites with Natural Fillers—A Review
Researchers examined the environmental degradation of polymer composites containing natural fillers, finding that exposure to outdoor conditions accelerates biodegradation of natural components and alters the mechanical properties of the composite material. The degradation process can generate microplastic fragments as the matrix breaks down.
Xenon lamp weathering induced structural evolution and pyrolysis mechanisms of HDPE-ethanol processing residue composites
Scientists studied what happens when a bio-based plastic composite (made from regular plastic and plant waste) breaks down after being exposed to artificial sunlight, similar to how plastic degrades outdoors. They found that weathered plastic produces different and potentially more harmful breakdown products when heated, including more small toxic chemicals and fewer natural plant compounds. This research helps us better understand how weathered plastics in our environment might behave differently than fresh plastics when they decompose, which could affect recycling efforts and environmental safety.
Release of harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from photo-degraded plastic debris: A neglected source of environmental pollution
Researchers investigated the release of volatile organic compounds from common plastic polymers including polystyrene, polypropylene, and polyethylene during artificial UV aging. The study found that photo-degraded plastics release harmful VOCs, identifying this as a neglected source of environmental pollution that could pose risks to both ecosystems and human health as plastic debris weathers in the environment.
A comprehensive review on polymer degradation: Mechanisms, environmental implications, and sustainable mitigation strategies
This comprehensive review examined the different ways plastics break down in the environment, including through heat, sunlight, chemical reactions, and biological processes. Researchers highlighted how polymer degradation leads to microplastic pollution, ecosystem disruption, and potential health risks for both wildlife and humans. The study emphasizes that biodegradable plastics, improved recycling, and better stabilization techniques are needed to manage plastic waste more sustainably.