Stabiliser distribution and efficiency examined by depth profiling polypropylene using a positron beam

The effectiveness of stabilisers, organic (hindered amine light stabilisers), inorganic (nanoparticulate zinc oxide), and combinations thereof, in preventing the signatures of degradation in polypropylene subjected to accelerated weathering is studied. Not only the type of stabiliser but also its distribution is important for stabiliser efficiency. The spatial effects of stabilization are studied using positron spectroscopy depth profiling.