The polycarbonates (PCs) sheets with UV protection are durable and they provide better clarity just like the normal glass. This has been the main reason why they are popularly used in quite a number of applications such as in the construction of greenhouses. The polycarbonate sheets without UV protection fail prematurely as they turn yellow. This reduces their performance significantly.
In most circumstances, polycarbonate materials without a UV protection acquire a yellow color which not only reduces their aesthetic value, but, also reduces their overall performance in all applications. Therefore, to guarantee optimal performance, you have no choice; but, to protect these materials from the UV light.
What are the basic facts about UV light and UV protection?
The UV light can be classified into three main categories which include: UVA whose wavelength ranges between 320 and 400 nanometers; UVB whose wavelength ranges between 280 and 320 nanometers and UVC whose wavelength ranges between 100 and 280 nanometers. From the Planck’s constant relationship; it is quite evident that the higher wavelengths are associated with lower energy and vice versa. Even though this plays a significant role when it comes to polycarbonate UV protection; the quantity of UV light also becomes a major subject matter.
In the recent past, research has also indicated that at higher altitudes a significant amount of UVB is absorbed. Generally, the polycarbonate materials are vulnerable to UV wavelengths which are below 300 nanometers and more specifically those that range between 280 and 290 nanometers. These wavelengths make the polycarbonate material to crack and this weakens the entire structure of this material. Moreover, they make these materials to turn yellow. In addition to this, an increase in the amount of UVB also degrades the polycarbonate material.
What does all these imply?
All polycarbonate materials which are used near the equator will degrade faster and will have a shorter lifespan. For this reason, it is important that you specify your location as this determines the kind of UV protection to be used to increase the service life of polycarbonates. If possible, you can contact the polycarbonate manufacturer and request for a UV protection which suitable for polycarbonate sheets which can be used in your locality. Alternatively, you can consult a reputable dealer since he/she will help you to choose those polycarbonates with desired protection. It is a challenging process though, very essential if you would wish to use these materials for a long time while avoiding unnecessary maintenance and repair costs.
There are other factors which are also responsible for the yellow color in the PCs. The yellow color is as a result of oxidation. Therefore, an increase in the rate of oxidation process will make the PCs to change their color at a faster rate. For instance, other research has also established that the linear manner of oxygen pressure also speeds up this process. On the other hand, there are inherent properties which contribute to this process too. A good example is the phenol end groups and the presence of steam in the reaction system. It is quite evident that some of these factors cannot be controlled by the end user; it is upon the manufacturing company to ensure that all PCs are protected from the UV effects.
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