One has to balance that degradation against the desire for non-leaching of the plastic into the contents and long shelf life.lostminty said:Interested in this because plastic drinking bottles have a taint to them when left out in the sun. I gather its from UV degredation of the PET plastic.
I'd like to find a catalyst that would allow the PET byproducts to be non water soluble/sequester or even evaporate.
Photolysis degradation is a process in which PET (polyethylene terephthalate) plastic is broken down into smaller molecules due to exposure to sunlight or artificial light.
The products of photolysis degradation of PET plastic can vary depending on the specific conditions of the process. However, some common products include smaller molecules of PET, such as ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid, as well as other byproducts like carbon dioxide.
While the products of photolysis degradation are not considered toxic, the process itself can contribute to the pollution of the environment. The fragments of PET plastic can remain in the environment for a long time and can potentially harm wildlife if ingested.
The duration of photolysis degradation can vary depending on factors such as the intensity and duration of sunlight exposure, as well as the type and thickness of the plastic. In general, it can take several months to a few years for significant degradation to occur.
While photolysis degradation cannot be completely prevented, it can be slowed down by limiting exposure to sunlight or using additives that can protect the plastic from UV radiation. Proper disposal and recycling of PET plastic can also help prevent the negative effects of photolysis degradation.