OUTDOOR AND UV GUIDE
How Is a UV Additive Masterbatch Selected?
UV additive selection cannot rely on one universal dosage; polymer, exposure conditions, target service period, color, part geometry, and the existing additive package must be reviewed together.
Color Masterbatch Technical Team · 2026-08-13 · 10 min
What Information Defines UV Resistance?
The statement "outdoor environment" is not a technical specification on its own. Geography, solar load, temperature, humidity, chemical contact, duration of use and acceptable color or mechanical change should be clearly defined.
Polymer and end use
PE, PP, PVC or a different polymer will not respond the same to the same UV package. Thickness and surface area are also evaluated for film, profile, injection part and pipe.
Color and pigment effect
Color formulation can affect light absorption and visible color change. The UV package is controlled in the same formulation as the target pigments and other additives.
How to Verify Contribution Package?
Supplier recommendation is the starting point. Final suitability is evaluated by an accelerated or natural aging schedule representing the actual formulation and target condition of use.
Check for conflicting contributions
Antioxidants, processing aids, fillers, pigments, and other stabilizers may work together or affect performance. The entire formulation should be included in the technical evaluation.
measure of success
Color change is not just visible; Depending on the application, changes in properties such as gloss, cracking, impact or shrinkage are also monitored. The acceptance limit is determined before testing.
Dosage and Sample Plan
The safest development plan is established with an initial dosage and controlled comparison samples. Definite life expectancy should not be promised without test results.
comparative sample
One or more dosages recommended with reference to additive-free are produced with the same raw materials and process. Thus, the effect of the formulation change is seen separately.
Registration and re-verification
If the raw material, color, additive or part thickness changes, the previous UV result is not automatically considered valid. In case of critical changes, the sample plan is renewed.
Short Technical Answers
Does UV masterbatch completely protect plastic from the sun?
No. UV additive aims to slow down aging; actual performance depends on polymer, formulation, geometry, media and dosage and must be verified by testing.
What percentage of UV masterbatch is used?
There is no single universal ratio. The supplier starting rate is verified with the sample, taking into account the active ingredient concentration, polymer, target time and other additives.
Should the UV package be retested if the color changes?
Re-verification is recommended for significant color changes as the color and pigment package may affect UV behavior.
Share the polymer, outdoor condition and target usage time; Let's prepare MasterKEM additive evaluation and sample plan.
Related guides
- MasterKEM product page
- MasterPOW product page
- MasterARM product page
- How to Select a Masterbatch Supplier: Sample and Quality Checklist