In the plastics industry, UV absorbers, antioxidants, and light stabilizers are essential for enhancing durability and extending the lifespan of plastic materials. However, they work through different mechanisms and are used for different types of degradation.
Category, Main Function, Working Principle, and Applications
| Category | Main Function | Working Principle | Applicable Plastics & Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antioxidant | Prevents thermal oxidative degradation | Inhibits oxygen free radicals from damaging plastics during high-temperature processing and use | PE, PP, ABS, PVC, PA, PU (High-temperature plastics, automotive parts, wires, and cables) |
| UV Absorber | Absorbs ultraviolet (UV) light, preventing UV-induced degradation | Absorbs 290-400nm UV rays and converts them into harmless heat energy, preventing molecular chain breakage | PP, PE, PET, PC, PMMA (Transparent plastics, packaging films, automotive lamp covers) |
| Light Stabilizer | Prevents photo-oxidative degradation (synergistic effect of UV and oxygen) | Traps free radicals and decomposes peroxides, stopping photo-oxidation degradation | PP, PE, PA, PVC, EVA (Agricultural films, construction materials, outdoor plastics) |
What Is the Relationship Between These Additives
Antioxidants mainly prevent thermal oxidative degradation, especially in high-temperature processing environments.
UV absorbers prevent plastic aging and discoloration caused by UV radiation, commonly used in transparent or light-colored plastics.
Light stabilizers inhibit free radical reactions, protecting plastics from photodegradation, making them ideal for outdoor applications.
In many cases, plastics require a combination of antioxidants, UV absorbers, and light stabilizers for optimal aging resistance.
Which Plastics Need These Additives and Under What Conditions
High-Temperature Processed Plastics PP, PE, ABS, PVC, PA, PU
Requires antioxidants to prevent thermal degradation during processing, such as in injection molding, extrusion, and blow molding.
Typical additives Antioxidants 1010, 168, 1076, 3114.
Transparent Plastics PC, PMMA, PET, PVC, PP
Requires UV absorbers to prevent yellowing and embrittlement caused by UV exposure.
Typical additives UV 326, UV 328, UV 531, UV P.
Outdoor Plastics Agricultural films, automotive plastics, outdoor furniture, construction materials
Requires light stabilizers to prevent photo-oxidative degradation from sunlight and oxygen.
Typical additives HALS 944, 622, 770.
Conclusion
Antioxidants Prevent degradation during high-temperature processing, suitable for high-temperature and long-term use plastics.
UV Absorbers Essential for transparent or UV-exposed plastics, preventing yellowing and aging.
Light Stabilizers Used in outdoor plastics to prevent photo-oxidative degradation, often combined with UV absorbers for better performance.
Selecting the right combination of these additives based on the plastic’s application environment ensures maximum durability and performance.
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