If you are planning to use corrugated plastic outdoors, then you might be wondering how long it lasts outdoors? It all depends upon the kind of material, UV exposure, weather, etc. This article talks about the lifespan of PP corrugated sheets, the factors that contribute to their degradation, and how to increase their lifespan.
1. How Long Does Corrugated Plastic Last Outdoors?
There is no standard life expectancy that would fit all corrugated plastic sheets.
What we can say is that ordinary PP corrugated sheets used outdoors have a service period for several years, whereas UV stabilized sheets will be more durable in such conditions. Specialists in the industry recommend that ordinary PP corrugated sheets used outdoors have a service period of 3-5 years, whereas UV stabilized corrugated sheets will be serviceable outdoors for 7-10 years.
The lifetime of the sheets outdoors may vary due to different reasons like the type of sheet, climate, and usage.
It will be enough to ask your supplier about the lifetime of this particular corrugated sheet.
2. Why Does Corrugated Plastic Degrade Outside?
One of the major obstacles that PP corrugated sheets have when exposed to sunlight directly is UV radiation.
If polypropylene is exposed to UV light and oxygen, there may be photo-oxidation reactions that can break down the material and result in loss of mechanical properties.
You may notice several visible signs as the material ages:
- Discoloration
- Chalky appearance
- Brittle surface
- Decreased impact resistance
- Cracking
- Brittle nature
- Loss of strength
The rate at which all of this happens will depend on the environment. For example, a sheet exposed to intense direct sunlight will break down much faster than.
3. UV Stabilization Makes a Major Difference
If you plan to use PP corrugated sheets outdoors for a long time, UV stabilization will be one of the first properties you will want to talk about with your supplier.
A UV stabilizer needs to be incorporated in the PP formulation in order to minimize UV degradation of PP caused by solar radiation. A number of stabilization systems could be employed, including hindered amine light stabilizers (HALS), among others. Studies of UV-stabilized polypropylene have shown the efficiency of different stabilizer systems in resisting outdoor degradation.
Do not think that all corrugated sheets made from PP are UV-stabilized.
If you plan to buy huge amounts of sheets, then you have to ask your manufacturers for the following information:
- Is this sheet UV stabilized?
- What is the UV stabilization method?
The proper UV stabilizer like HALS is used in the PP formula.
- How many UV resistant properties do you get?
It depends on the formula, the environment, and the exposure. The manufacturer must give you information on the test that includes the time of UV exposure, color change, and tensile strength retention after the test or impact resistance.
- Was there a weathering test done?
You have to ask the time of test, conditions of UV exposure, temperature, humidity, and performance results, such as color change, tensile strength, and impact resistance before and after the test. For guidance purposes, use 1,000 to 2,000+ hours of accelerated weathering, color change ≤3–5 (ΔE), and ≥80% retention of tensile strength and impact resistance after the test. Yet, these figures should not be considered as standard requirements, but rather as guidelines, since they may vary based on your particular application and local weather conditions.
- Which test procedure was used?
Commonly used tests include ASTM G154 and ASTM G155.
- How was the service life determined?
It has to be determined by means of the accelerated weathering test or by outdoor test or both.
4. Climate Can Change the Expected Lifespan
Climate in your area is also a significant consideration.
For instance, PP corrugated sheets exposed to areas with extreme sunlight and heat will have a shorter life time as compared to the same materials exposed in regions with relatively mild climates.
You need to consider the following:
- UV exposure
- Solar exposure
- Climate
- Humidity
- Rainfall
- Coastal environment
- Pollution
- Wind
- Mechanical exposure
Several studies show that PP weathering occurs due to several environmental factors such as irradiation, temperature, oxygen and moisture conditions. Consequently, outdoor performance varies widely depending on the place.
In case you are a business operating in several regions, it is very significant. Sheets that perform well in one country may need a different UV formulation in another country with higher solar exposure.
5. Does Color Affect Outdoor Performance?
Yes, color and pigment choice do influence outdoor durability.
Dark-colored and black-colored PP materials can offer extra UV protection as long as the right UV-protected pigments are used in combination with stabilizers. But don’t think that color determines UV protection.
Not all colored sheets are necessarily UV-stabilized sheets.
If your clients demand outdoor exposure for an extended period of time, then get details on the pigments and UV stabilization systems from your supplier.
It becomes essential especially when you import bright-colored sheets like white, blue, green, yellow or other shades outdoors for maintaining appearance and mechanical properties.
6. Does Thickness Affect Outdoor Performance?
It can also influence the performance of a corrugated plastic sheet in certain applications. However, thick does not necessarily guarantee UV stability.
A thick sheet will ensure rigidity or mechanical stability, while the polymer itself can degrade due to UV rays even after a thick layer has been added.
This means that when using PP corrugated sheets outdoors, you need to consider thickness and UV stability independently.
For instance, going for a thick sheet may not solve your problem if you are worried about sunlight.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.Does outdoor exposure affect the Sizes of PP corrugated sheets?
Changes in temperature can cause dimensional changes. In the case of large structures, you will need to consider this factor during installation.
Q2.How will coastal exposure influence the performance of corrugated plastic?
Salt spray and high humidity could make the environment harsher, especially when the sheet is also exposed to sunlight. When your customers are in coastal areas, it would be wise to ask your manufacturer about environmental testing.
Q3. Does UV stabilization affect the price of corrugated plastic sheets?
Yes. Incorporation of UV stabilizers in your material can make the material price go up. However, in the case of outdoor use, it may save you from replacing costs in the future.
Q4.Does repeated cleaning affect the lifespan of outdoor corrugated plastic?
It may, based on how you clean it and the type of chemicals you use. There is a possibility that the cleaner used could be harsh on the plastic’s surface.
Q5.How long do corrugated plastic yard signs last outside?
It all depends on many factors, such as how much the sign is exposed to sunlight, its thickness, material composition, weather conditions, etc. Corrugated plastic signs usually last for 6 to 24 months outdoors.
Q6. Does the orientation of a corrugated plastic sheet affect its lifespan?
It might. The orientation of your sheet determines how much sunlight, rain, and other elements it will be exposed to. A sheet installed vertically might receive a different amount of exposure than one installed horizontally.
Q7.How does improper installation affect corrugated plastic roofing sheets?
Wrong installation on Plastic Corrugated Roofing Sheets will cause some pressure on particular parts of the structure, causing it to crack. Wrong installation can also lead to leakage due to poorly sealed joints and bad overlaps.
8. Conclusion
Corrugated plastic is able to withstand several years outside, while PP sheets with UV protection could provide an even longer service life if the conditions are right. The life of your sheet will depend on its material, UV resistance, environment, exposure to the sun, thickness, color, and installation. For imported products, opt for certified weathering capabilities. Learn more at PurePack.
