SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 January 1988
STP18556S

End-Group Effects on the Wavelength Dependence of Laser-Induced Photodegradation in Bisphenol-A Polycarbonate

Source

This is an extended summary of a complete paper published recently in Macromolecules. The photochemistry of bisphenol-A polycarbonate (BPA-PC) has been the subject of a number of investigations since losses of desirable properties such as transparency, tensile strength, impact resistance, and rigidity result from photodegradation when this well-known engineering polymer is used in outdoor applications [1-3]. Since many of these properties are adversely influenced by reactions at the surface of the solid polymer, where solar UV absorption and uptake of oxygen and water are highest, the addition of UV stabilizers and/or antioxidants to the bulk polymer has been generally unsuccessful in extending its outdoor service life to beyond 3 years [4]. Attempts to extend the outdoor service life of polycarbonates by incorporating them into laminates of weatherable, UV-absorbing acrylate and methacrylate polymers have also been unsuccessful, although efforts in this direction continue [5].

Author Information

Webb, JD
Czanderna, AW
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Developed by Committee: F01
Pages: 232–234
DOI: 10.1520/STP18556S
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-5032-4
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-4477-4