This reference guide brings together a wide range of essential data on the effects of weather and UV light exposure on plastics and elastomers, enabling engineers to make optimal material choices and design decisions. In both normal and extreme environments, outdoor use has a variety of effects on different plastics and elastomers, including discoloring and brittleness. The data is supported by explanations of real-world engineering applications. The data tables in this book are supported by examples of real-world applications, enabling engineers and scientists to select the right materials for a given situation, across a wide range of sectors including construction, packaging, signage, consumer (e.g. toys, outdoor furniture), automotive and aerospace, defense, etc. 

The third edition includes new text chapters that provide the fundamental knowledge required to make best use of the data. Author Larry McKeen has also added detailed  descriptions of the effect of weathering on the most common polymer classes such  as polyolefins, polyamides, polyesters, elastomers, fluoropolymers, biodegradable  plastics, etc., making this book an invaluable design guide as well as an industry standard  data source.

• Essential data and practical guidance for engineers and scientists working with plastics in outdoor applications and products
• New introductory chapters on weathering processes and the effect of light and heat on plastics
• 25% new data

Larry McKeen has a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Wisconsin and worked for DuPont Fluoroproducts from 1978-2014. As a Senior Research Associate (Chemist), he was responsible for new product development including application technology and product optimization for particular end-uses, and product testing. He retired from DuPont at the end of 2014 and is currently a consultant.

1. Introduction to Plastics and Polymers2. Introduction to Environmental testing3. Production of plastic films and articles4. Principles of photochemistry5. Markets and Applications for Plastics requiring UV and weathering performance6. Styrene-based Plastics7. Polyesters8. Polyimides9. Polyamides (Nylons)10. Polyolefins, Polyvinyls and Acrylics11. Fluoropolymers12. High Temperature/High Performance Polymers13. Elastomers and rubbers14. Environmentally friendly polymers (biosource and biodegradable)