Photodegradation

Photodegradation is the breakdown of materials through chemical reactions initiated by light. It can alter a material’s chemical structure, appearance, and performance.

Photochemistry: The study of chemical reactions initiated by light or involving excited states. Photodegradation is one outcome of light-driven chemical reactions.
Polymer degradation: The deterioration of a polymer’s chemical structure or properties through physical or chemical processes. Photodegradation is a major cause of polymer deterioration outdoors.
Electromagnetic spectrum: The full range of electromagnetic radiation, ordered by frequency or wavelength. Different spectral regions carry photons capable of initiating different reactions.
Microplastics: Plastic particles smaller than five millimeters, including fragments and fibers. Sunlight embrittles and fragments plastic, contributing to the formation of these particles.
Biodegradation: The breakdown of substances by the metabolic activity of living organisms. Unlike photodegradation, it depends on biological activity rather than light as its initiating cause.
Photolysis: Chemical bond cleavage caused by absorption of a photon. Direct bond breaking is one route by which light decomposes materials.
Photodegradable plastic: Plastic designed or formulated to break down after exposure to light. It is a deliberate material application of light-induced breakdown.
Ultraviolet: Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths shorter than visible violet light and longer than X-rays. Ultraviolet photons commonly initiate degradation in materials exposed to sunlight.
Marine plastic pollution: The accumulation of plastic debris in oceans and coastal environments. Photodegradation alters exposed debris but does not necessarily eliminate its pollution.
Thermal degradation: Chemical deterioration caused by exposure to elevated temperatures. Heat can produce similar material changes without light initiating the reaction.

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