Degradation modes of crosslinked coatings exposed to photolytic environment

The objective of this study is to assess the degradation modes of crosslinked coatings exposed to photolytic environments. Three model crosslinked coatings were exposed in various ultraviolet environments. Atomic force microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were used in following nanoscale physical and chemical degradation during exposures. Results indicated that photodegradation of crosslinked coatings is a spatially localized (inhomogeneous) process in which nanometer-sized pits are initially formed; these pits deepen and enlarge with exposure. A conceptual model is proposed to explain the inhomogeneous degradation mode. The model proposes that nanosize hydrophilic domains are dispersed randomly with the highly crosslinked units. These hydrophilic domains, which are energetically preferred, comprise polar, unreacted and partially polymerized molecules, chromophores, and other additives. Photodegradation initiates at degradation-susceptible hydrophilic domains spreading to surrounding areas contiguous with the initiation site.