Functions and Uses of Light Stabilizers

As Beijing Tiangang Auxiliary, today we would like to share what we know about light stabilizers.

A light stabilizer is an additive that helps materials resist the effects of light. When a material is exposed to sunlight, light stabilizers absorb and disperse ultraviolet rays, preventing UV-induced oxidation from causing the material to age and crack.

Light stabilizers are used very widely — for example in polymers, resins, rubber, and dyes and pigments. During material manufacturing and processing, light stabilizers are among the most important additives, improving durability and performance when materials are exposed to sunlight.

Generally, light stabilizers can be divided into two categories: UV absorbers and radical-scavenging light stabilizers.

UV absorbers are chemical substances that absorb ultraviolet light at wavelengths of 290–400 nm, thereby protecting materials. Common UV absorbers include phenolic, dibenzamide, epoxy-resin and UV-screening types.

Radical-scavenging light stabilizers suppress or capture the free radicals generated by UV induction, thereby preventing them from causing oxidative degradation of the material and achieving light stabilization. Common radical-scavenging light stabilizers include photo-degradable antioxidants and radical traps that react directly with free radicals.

The use of light stabilizers gives materials antioxidant protection, improves their resistance to UV ageing and cracking, and extends service life. Light stabilizers are used not only in engineering materials such as plastics and rubber, but also widely in feed, pharmaceuticals, food and other industries.

In summary, light stabilizers are very important additives in modern chemical production. As Beijing Tiangang Auxiliary, we focus on product quality and effectiveness, providing excellent protection for a wide range of materials and supporting the sustainable development of the industry.