Maya Ellison
Plastic is a valuable and ubiquitous material found in everything from packaging to everyday items, and it’s essential to protect it from damage. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause various types of damage to plastic, including UV radiation effects, temperature effects, and colour changes. To keep plastic items functional and durable, it is important to take protective measures such as limiting direct sunlight exposure, applying protective coatings, and using plastic additives. With proper precautions, plastic items can be safeguarded from deterioration and maintained in good condition.
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What You'll Learn
Keep plastic items out of direct sunlight
Sunlight can have a detrimental effect on plastic items, causing them to degrade and become brittle, discoloured, and cracked. To protect plastic items from damage, it is important to keep them out of direct sunlight. Here are some ways to do this:
Firstly, it is advisable to store plastic items in a sheltered area, such as a garage or a shaded area. This is especially important for items that are usually left outdoors, such as patio furniture or vehicles. Keeping these items in the shade will significantly reduce their exposure to UV rays. For items that cannot be moved, such as plumbing pipes, consider installing a structure that provides shade.
If it is not possible to keep plastic items completely out of the sun, there are other measures that can be taken to reduce their exposure. For example, placing a protective cover over the items will shield them from direct sunlight. This could be in the form of an opaque covering, such as a tarp or specialised plastic wrap.
Another way to protect plastic items from sunlight is to coat them with a protective film or UV-resistant paint. This acts as a barrier, preventing UV radiation from reaching and deteriorating the surface of the plastic. It is important to prepare the surface properly before applying any coatings or paint, ensuring it is clean and dry.
Additionally, when purchasing plastic items, it is worth considering the type of plastic and its resistance to sunlight. Some plastics, such as CPVC, are more resistant to UV degradation and may be a better choice for items that will be exposed to sunlight.
By implementing these measures, you can help ensure that your plastic items are protected from direct sunlight and reduce the risk of damage. Taking these precautions will help maintain the functionality and durability of your plastic possessions, as well as their longevity.
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Use protective coatings
Plastic coatings are an effective way to protect assets from damage. They are used across various industries, including automotive, aerospace, food and beverage, and marine.
One of the key benefits of plastic coatings is their ability to act as a barrier, protecting the underlying material from moisture, corrosive elements, and other environmental factors. For example, in the marine industry, plastic coatings are essential for safeguarding boat hulls, decks, and other components from saltwater damage. Similarly, in the aerospace industry, plastic coatings help components withstand extreme temperatures, radiation, and the harsh environment of space.
Plastic coatings also offer enhanced chemical resistance, making them suitable for use in industries where exposure to aggressive substances is common, such as in the food and beverage industry, where equipment needs to be protected from harsh chemicals and acids.
Additionally, plastic coatings can improve the aesthetic appeal of products. They can be produced in different colours and finishes, allowing for customisation and improved visual appeal. This is particularly advantageous in industries where appearance matters, such as in the production of consumer goods.
There are various types of plastic coatings available, each with its own unique advantages. For instance, Dipseal's Plastisol coating provides protection and a soft, sleek appearance, making it ideal for vehicle components like door handles and dashboard knobs. On the other hand, their Nylon coating is exceptionally resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and extreme temperatures, making it a lightweight solution for aerospace applications.
Plastic coatings can be applied using state-of-the-art equipment like plasma flame spraying and HVOF technology, ensuring precise and uniform coatings that extend the lifespan and improve the functionality of coated components.
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Use plastic additives
Plastic additives are compounds added during the formulation of the resin to improve the mechanical properties of plastic. They can be used to improve the current attributes of plastic or add entirely new properties to pre-existing plastic.
There are many different types of plastic additives, each with its own unique function. Antioxidants, for example, protect polymers from oxidation and damage from heat and oxygen during manufacture, processing, and use. They also improve the processing of the material, which helps reduce waste and energy consumption. By stopping the growth of mould and bacteria, antioxidants can extend the lifespan of plastics. Acid scavengers are another type of additive that prevents unwanted chemical reactions, making the plastic more durable.
Light stabilizers are designed to protect polymers from photooxidation induced by the intense UV energy coming from the sun. Some additives absorb these energy packets, preventing deterioration of the polymer. UV stabilizers, also known as anti-UV additives, use hydroxybenzo, esters of acrylic acid, hydroxyphenyl, and benzotriazoles to protect plastics from sunlight exposure. To combat UV damage, one solution is to use a free radical scavenger, such as Hindering Amine Light Stabilizer (HALS). HALS is extremely effective against light attenuation for most polymers and helps plastic products retain their mechanical properties.
Other additives include fire retardants, which inhibit burning, and plasticizers, which make plastic materials more elastic and mouldable. Anti-fog agents, also known as anti-fog additives, are chemical substances that prevent the condensation of water in the form of droplets on surfaces. Slippery additives or anti-caking agents make the surface of the film rough, allowing air to interfere with the film and eliminating the vacuum effect. Anti-static additives are used to reduce static electricity on plastic surfaces, preventing product damage, safety hazards, and reduced functionality.
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Bury plastic pipes underground
Burying plastic pipes, such as PVC, underground is a common practice for many plumbing and construction needs due to their versatility, durability, and ease of installation. However, it is important to follow best practices to protect the pipes from damage and ensure their longevity. Here are some detailed instructions to follow when burying plastic pipes underground:
Inspect and Prepare the Pipes:
Before installing plastic pipes underground, it is crucial to inspect them for any signs of damage, such as cuts, split ends, or gouges. If any damaged sections are found, cut away and discard those pieces. Additionally, ensure that the pipes have been stored properly prior to installation, avoiding direct sunlight, high temperatures, stacking, or dragging, as these factors can weaken the pipes.
Plan the Trench:
Determine the proper width and depth of the trench by adhering to the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standards and local building codes. The trench should be wide enough to accommodate the pipe, allowing for expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. Ensure that the trench is free of large rocks, as they can potentially damage the pipe after burial. Consider using metal or concrete casting in high-traffic areas for added protection.
Dig and Install:
Begin by digging the trench, taking care to compact the material to the spring line of the pipe. Join piping outside the trench prior to installation if possible to avoid making the trench wider than necessary. Install the plastic pipes in strict accordance with the relevant ASTM standard for the specific type of plastic piping system being installed. Proper side fill and compaction are essential to ensure the pipe can withstand external live and earth loads.
Backfill and Mark:
Once all joints are fully cured, backfill the trench, following the specific bedding and backfill requirements outlined in the ASTM standards. Mark the location of the buried pipe with stakes and string to ensure proper placement and help identify the length of the pipe. This marking system will also serve as a warning to prevent accidental excavation or damage to the pipe in the future.
By following these detailed steps and adhering to industry standards, you can effectively protect plastic pipes from damage when burying them underground and extend their lifespan.
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Store plastic in a sheltered area
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause significant damage to plastic materials. Sunlight damage to plastic can range from discoloration and fading to cracking and breaking. Therefore, it is essential to store plastic items in a sheltered area to protect them from damage.
Sheltered areas provide shade and block direct sunlight, reducing the amount of UV radiation that reaches the plastic. This is crucial because UV radiation can cause plastic to degrade, become brittle, and crack. By storing plastic in a sheltered area, you can slow down the degradation process and maintain the structural integrity of the material.
When storing plastic in a sheltered area, consider using a structure that provides ample shade, such as a garage or a covered patio. If a permanent structure is not available, a temporary solution like a canopy or a tarp can be used to create a shaded area. Ensure that the sheltered area is well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup, which can also damage plastic over time.
Additionally, when choosing a sheltered area, consider the surrounding environment. Avoid areas with excessive dirt, salt, or other environmental contaminants that can affect plastic. If possible, opt for a storage location that is clean, dry, and relatively stable in terms of temperature and humidity. Regularly inspect the plastic items for any signs of damage, such as discoloration or cracks, and take the necessary steps to address them promptly.
By storing plastic in a sheltered area, you can significantly reduce the impact of sunlight exposure and maintain the condition of your plastic items for a more extended period.
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Frequently asked questions
Sunlight can cause plastic to degrade, which leads to discolouration, cracking, and a reduction in strength and durability.
Limit the amount of direct sunlight exposure the plastic receives. Place the plastic in a sheltered area or use a protective cover.
Coat the plastic with a protective film or coating designed to reflect UV and IR radiation. Alternatively, use plastic additives or more resistant types of plastic.
Use paint thinner to remove any gunk and grease. You can also use a plastic restorer product or try more unconventional methods like peanut butter.
Keep your car in the shade as much as possible. You can also repaint the trim or give it a deep clean with paint thinner.
