College

College of Engineering and Polymer Science

Date of Last Revision

2023-05-16 11:41:26

Major

Chemical Engineering

Honors Course

CHEE 497-001

Number of Credits

2

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science

Date of Expected Graduation

Spring 2023

Abstract

As the ubiquitousness of polymers increases and begins seeing use in outdoor settings, the need to fully understand how these materials degrade is also necessary. This study aims to compare two known accelerated aging methods, namely an ultraviolet light chamber and a xenon arc light chamber, to understand what differences, if any, manifest in the mechanical, chemical, and cosmetic deterioration of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) after long-term exposure. The study utilizes Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, dynamic mechanical analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, and colorimetry analysis to determine the extent of degradation and potential discrepancies between the aging methods.

Research Sponsor

James Eagan

First Reader

Junpeng Wang

Second Reader

Sean Hummel

Honors Faculty Advisor

Edward Evans

Proprietary and/or Confidential Information

No

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