ESCA studies of natural weathering phenomena at selected polymer surfaces

ESCA is used to characterize the surfaces of high and low density polyethylenes, nylon‐6,6, polyphenylene oxide, and polysulfone after exposure to the environment. Reactions that lead to degradation of the polymer surfaces can be detected straightforwardly and are discussed in terms of the known reactions found in the bulk polymers under similar conditions. The degree of surface oxidation is a strong function of polymer structure. The relative roles of different regions of the solar spectrum and other ambient conditions are examined by comparing the weathering characteristics in three mounting configurations.