Characterization and modeling of weathering degradation of PC/ABS blend in various temperature and humidity conditions

In this study, the accelerated degradation tests were conducted on PC/ABS blend (50:50) under various combinations of temperature and humidity, 85 °C-85 %RH, 85 °C-45 %RH, 75 °C-65 %RH, 85 °C-dry, 95 °C-dry, and 105 °C-dry conditions. The generation of surface damages were observed in detail, and a quantitative degree of degradation was defined based on the spectroscopic analysis. Also, the master curves correlating the degree of degradation with mechanical properties were constructed. The prediction model for degradation degree and mechanical properties under arbitrary temperature and humidity condition was suggested based on the degradation kinetics, and it was utilized to estimate the degradation behavior of field-weathered samples for 6 months. Based on this study, it is believed that the degradation behavior of PC/ABS blend under a wide range of weathering conditions can be predicted accurately by suggested protocol, and the reliable application potential of PC/ABS blends for various industrial areas is enhanced.