Artificial simulated and natural weathering of poly(vinyl chloride) for outdoor applications: the influence of water in the changes of properties

Four different PVC formulations, designed for outdoor applications, were submitted to artificial accelerated ageing in xenon light, without and with spray of water, and to natural exposure in Lisbon. The influence of the combined action of water, temperature and radiation in the oxidative ageing was evaluated by means of molecular analysis, using infrared spectroscopy, and in terms of evolution of the aesthetic properties, using scanning spectroscopy and colourimetry.