UV stability and radiation-crosslinking of linear low density polyethylene and low density polyethylene for greenhouse applications

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation stability and γ-radiation crosslinking of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) and low density polyethylene (LDPE) for greenhouse film applications was investigated. Various combinations of primary antioxidant (i.e. Irganox 1010), secondary antioxidant (i.e. Irgafos 168), UV absorber (i.e. Chimassorb 81) and hindered amine light stabilizer (HALS) were used to prepare thin PE films (60 μm thick). The films were cross-linked by γ-rays with doses of 20–200 kGy. Accelerated weathering test up to 1146 h and natural (outdoor) weathering up to 165 days were performed for the prepared films. In addition, gel content and mechanical properties of these films were determined. Improved UV stability was achieved with films of LLDPE and LDPE containing HALS along with other additives.