UV and other forms of radiation cause severe damage to a wide range of materials from living organisms to manufactured products. Plastics materials and products exposed to UV light suffer weakening, discoloring and degradation. In this book, George Wypych provides a comprehensive reference guide to help those working with plastics to limit this damage and deterioration through the use of UV stabilizers. The author begins with physics of radiation energy, transmission, and absorption and their effect on materials. The wide range of UV stabilizers available in the market is discussed in terms of their chemistry, physical properties, application specifics, and effects on health and environment. The mechanisms and functionality of stabilizers are discussed and explained through mathematical modeling. Stabilizers are evaluated from the point of view of their effect on other additives in mixtures, and on the efficiency of the materials they are used in. Suggestions are given regarding the selection of stabilizers for different products and polymers.

Author Biography

George Wypych has a Ph.D. in chemical engineering. His professional expertise includes both university teaching (full professor) and research and development. He has published 18 books: PVC Plastisols, (University Press); Polyvinylchloride Degradation, (Elsevier); Polyvinylchloride Stabilization, (Elsevier); Polymer Modified Textile materials, (Wiley & Sons); Handbook of Material Weathering, 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Editions, (ChemTec Publishing); Handbook of Fillers, 1st, 2nd and 3rd Editions, (ChemTec Publishing); Recycling of PVC, (ChemTec Publishing); Weathering of Plastics. Testing to Mirror Real Life Performance, (Plastics Design Library), Handbook of Solvents, Handbook of Plasticizers, 1st and 2nd Editions, Handbook of Antistatics, Handbook of Material Biodegradation, Biodeterioration and Biostabilation, Handbook of Antiblocking, Release and Slip Additives 1st and 2nd Editions, Handbook of UV Degradation and Stabilization, PVC Degradation & Stabilization, The PVC Formulary, Atlas of Material Damage, and Handbook of Polymers (all by ChemTec Publishing), 47 scientific papers, and he has obtained 16 patents. He specializes in polymer additives, polymer processing and formulation, material durability and the development of sealants and coatings. He is included in the Dictionary of International Biography, Who's Who in Plastics and Polymers, Who's Who in Engineering, and was selected International Man of the Year 1996-1997 in recognition for his services to education.