Polymers and Polymer Composites

UV effects on the tensile and creep behaviour of HDPE

May 1, 2017 By: Becerra A F C; d'Almeida J R M Research article

Title: UV effects on the tensile and creep behaviour of HDPE
Page Range: p.327-332
Author(s): Becerra A F C; d’Almeida J R M
File size:
Download the pdf (subscribers only)
Buy the pdf (non-subscribers)
Journal: Polymers and Polymer Composites
Issue Year: ppc
Volume: 25
Issue No: No.5

Abstract
The tensile and creep behaviour of a high-density polyethylene grade used to manufacture pipes were evaluated as a function of the time of exposure to UV radiation. The effect of the creep stress level was also analysed. A threshold radiation dose was determined, above which UV radiation causes loss of the macroscopic mechanical behaviour for this particular HDPE grade. Below the threshold value, macromolecular modifications were also taking place, but the deleterious effect of UV radiation was masked by the development of a more rigid structure. Scanning electron microscopy, melt flow index and thermogravimetric analysis were used to support the results of the mechanical analysis. 17 Refs.


Related reading

More journal reading and science coverage connected to this topic.