Elastomer materials excel in flexibility, resilience, and impact resistance, but they are more susceptible to aging under the combined effects of light, heat, and oxygen. UV-induced oxidation leads to hardening, cracking, loss of elasticity, and adhesion, ultimately resulting in reduced lifespan and safety hazards. Whether in the insulation sheaths of wires and cables, the resilient cushioning of foam footwear, automotive sealing and vibration-damping components, or waterproof and cushioning structures in outdoor building materials, long-term weather resistance must be established through light stabilizer systems. This ensures elastomers remain flexible without compromising strength and maintain performance over extended use.
In the wire and cable sector, sheaths and insulation layers frequently endure outdoor sun exposure or high-temperature conditions. Light and thermal oxidation accelerate material cracking and performance degradation. Implementing a light stabilization system that mitigates UV radiation damage and suppresses photo-oxidative chain reactions helps materials maintain elongation and crack resistance. This reduces the risk of insulation failure due to aging and enhances long-term reliability in demanding environments.
Foamed footwear materials prioritize lightweight properties and rebound, yet sun exposure and thermal oxidation readily cause yellowing, powdering, or diminished compression rebound, compromising appearance and comfort. Employing photostabilization solutions with excellent compatibility and controlled migration risk helps mitigate surface aging and embrittlement, improving resistance to yellowing and fatigue. This ensures footwear maintains stable cushioning and appearance under outdoor and high-frequency use conditions.
In the automotive industry, elastomers serve diverse applications including seals, dampers, hoses, and coverings, often facing combined challenges from UV radiation, heat, oil mist, ozone, and mechanical stress. Systematic light stabilization design, synergized with antioxidant strategies, significantly delays hardening and cracking. This enhances the longevity of sealing and damping performance, reduces maintenance frequency, and boosts overall vehicle reliability and comfort during long-term use.
In outdoor building materials—such as elastomer components for sealing and waterproofing, outdoor flooring, and cushioning parts—chalking and cracking from prolonged exposure directly compromise structural integrity and aesthetics. Selecting compound light stabilizers with higher weather resistance ratings that balance processing stability and long-term stability helps materials maintain color, elasticity, and dimensional stability. For different elastomer systems and service environments, approaches like low-alkaline hindered amine light stabilizers can reduce interactions with acidic components or systems, improving compatibility and longevity. This ensures materials maintain stable performance under prolonged sun exposure and temperature/humidity fluctuations.
