The object of this publication is to provide practical guidance on assessing the useful service life of plastics. It describes test procedures and extrapolation techniques together with the inherent limitations and problems. This publication seeks to be comprehensive but concentrates on the most common environmental effects causing degradation. The test procedures used are outlined and the relevant textbooks and international standards are well referenced. Examples of lifetime testing studies are cited.
Foreword
Chapter 1 : Introduction
Chapter 2 : Definition of the Plastic
Chapter 3 : What is Failure?
Chapter 4 : Agents and Mechanisms of Degradation
Chapter 5 : Real and Simulated Service Conditions
Chapter 6 : Accelerated Tests
Chapter 7 : Parameters to Monitor Degradation
Chapter 8 : Prediction Techniques
Chapter 9 : Limitations, Pitfalls and Uncertainties
Chapter 10 : Condition Monitoring and Residual Life Assessment
Chapter 11 : Data Available
Chapter 12 : Examples of Current Practice
Chapter 13 : Conclusion
Abbreviations and Acronyms
Index
