Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) is a promising candidate for sprinkler piping systems in seismic areas. In spite of numerous advantages, the use of CPVC sprinkler piping in earthquake zones poses various concerns like chemical incompatibilities, environmental degradation and limited field data. In this study, the effect of simulated sunlight and ultraviolet (UVB) light on the chemical structure and physical properties of CPVC was studied. Exposures were conducted in the QSUN xenon test chamber and QUV accelerated weathering tester. CPVC tensile specimens were exposed for 1, 4, 8 and 12 weeks in both the QSUN and QUV chambers. Exposed CPVC samples were then analyzed by tensile testing apparatus, Fourier Transform � Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC). The results indicated early degradation of CPVC when exposed in the QSUN chamber. The tensile testing data showed apparent changes in elongation at break (70.40% reduction) after 8 weeks of exposure in the QSUN chamber (1344 hours of noon summer light). Figure below shows FT-IR spectrum of (a) unexposed control, (b) CPVC sample exposed for 4 weeks and (c) CPVC sample exposed for 8 weeks in the Q-Sun chamber. FT-IR analysis conducted on the surface of the exposed side indicated spectral changes (indicated by the blue arrows) in samples exposed in QSUN chamber as early as one week. For example, absorbance peak at 1718 cm-1 is not present in the unexposed control. 

Degradation of CPVC sprinkler piping material by simulated sunlight and UVB light

246th National Meeting (2013)

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