Accelerating Plasticizer Migration Testing in PVC with Q-Lab’s QUV

Plasticizer migration is a critical durability concern in flexible PVC, especially in applications like medical tubing, wire & cable, flooring, and automotive interiors. A recent article in Plastics Engineering explains how plasticizer migration can lead to reduced mechanical stability and contamination, and offers strategies for modifying surfaces to inhibit plasticizer migration.

For evaluation of the effectiveness of these techniques, Q-Lab’s QUV accelerated weathering test chamber provides an efficient way to accelerate plasticizer migration in PVC by combining controlled UV exposure with hot condensation - the same conditions that drive real-world leaching.

How QUV Accelerates Plasticizer Migration

Q-Lab's QUV accelerated weathering test chamber accelerates migration of plasticizer in PVC via a two-factor process:

• UV degrades the PVC surface, making it easier for plasticizers to mobilize and reach the surface.
• Hot condensation causes the plasticizers to migrate out of the PVC, dramatically accelerating real-world behavior. The continuous formation of condensation in QUV testers then also washes plasticizer off of the surface.

This combination mimics the “perfect storm” of outdoor or high-humidity environments, where UV damage plus moisture leads to faster plasticizer degradation and migration.

Ensuring Condensation in QUV Testing

The effectiveness of hot condensation for accelerating PVC plasticizer migration depends on the robust, continuous condensation formation delivered by QUV testers when properly operated. Inadequate condensation can lead to sticky, glossy, fingerprint-prone specimens. To make sure your tester condensation is sufficient to cause migration in PVC and wash surfaces, follow these guidelines:

• Set condensation temperature control to 45 °C or higher. Condensation setpoints too close to room temperature can inhibit condensation formation.
• Avoid using thick, insulating specimens that reduce heat transfer.
• If additional convective cooling on specimen backs is needed, prop the QUV front door open slightly
• Use a brief 3-minute spray in QUV/spray models to initiate condensation - but only as a last resort.

Interested in learning more about PVC weathering testing? Our team of experts are here and ready to answer your questions.

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