Temporal evolution and pathway models of poly(ethylene-terephthalate) degradation under multi-factor accelerated weathering exposures

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0212258
• Publication Date: 2019-02-15T18:27:56Z
• Authors: Abdulkerim Gok; Cara L. Fagerholm; Roger H. French; Laura S. Bruckman
• Keywords: Degradation; Chromophore

Photolytic and hydrolytic degradation of poly(ethylene-terephthalate) (PET) polymers with different stabilizers were performed under multiple accelerated weathering exposures changes in the monitored by various evaluation techniques. Yellowing was caused photolytic haze formation induced combined effects degradation. The light absorbing chromophores bleaching UV stabilizer additive recorded through optical spectroscopy. Chain scission crystallization found to be common mechanisms both conditions, based on infrared absorption carbonyl (C = O) band trans ethylene glycol unit, respectively. determined from these evaluations then used construct a set pathway network models using structural equation modeling (netSEM) approach. This method captured temporal evolution assessing statistically significant relationships between applied stressors, mechanistic variables, performance level responses. Quantitative equations provided contributions variables response changes.