EN
RU
The issue of UV resistance in thermoplastic elastomers is particularly relevant for light-coloured grades. Black grades, by contrast, are produced with the addition of carbon black concentrate, which is known to be one of the most effective natural UV absorbers. For coloured TPE grades, however, UV resistance becomes a much more serious challenge. Inexpensive TPE formulations most often exhibit colour changes, typically developing an undesirable yellowish tint.
In recent years, many TPE manufacturers have managed to reduce this problem by using higher-quality raw materials. Nevertheless, the issue of TPE ageing under solar UV radiation has not been fully solved by many producers.
Even when colour does not change under UV exposure, non-stabilised TPE grades can suffer significant losses in mechanical properties such as strength and elasticity. Surfaces may become sticky, soft, and “plasticine-like,” ultimately leading to material breakdown.
The Standard Prof Factory produces UV-stabilised TPE grades that retain their properties for more than 1000 hours in a UV test chamber under exposure to UV light and a temperature of 70 °C.
