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Characterization Techniques of Polymer Aging: From Beginning to End.
Rui Tian1, Kaitao Li1, Yanjun Lin1,2
1State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China.
Chemical Reviews
|February 21, 2023
Summary
This review guides selecting polymer aging characterization methods for initial, accelerated, and late stages. It details strategies for evaluating radical generation, functional group changes, chain scission, and performance deterioration.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Polymers are ubiquitous in daily life and manufacturing.
- Polymer aging is inevitable, posing challenges for material lifespan assessment.
- Characterizing aged polymers requires diverse methods tailored to different aging stages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of characterization strategies for polymer aging.
- To discuss optimal methods for evaluating specific aging phenomena.
- To guide the strategic selection of techniques for polymer lifetime prediction.
Main Methods:
- Review of characterization techniques applicable to polymer aging.
- Analysis of methods for detecting radical generation and functional group changes.
- Evaluation of techniques for assessing chain scission, molecular weight changes, and macro-performance deterioration.
Main Results:
- Different aging stages necessitate distinct characterization approaches.
- Specific techniques are recommended for initial, accelerated, and late-stage aging.
- Structure-property relationships in aged polymers are highlighted.
Conclusions:
- Strategic application of characterization techniques is crucial for understanding polymer aging.
- Guidance is provided for predicting the service life of polymers.
- This review aids materials scientists and chemists in selecting appropriate aging assessment methods.
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