What are the effects of UV Radiation on PVC pipe?
A two year study[1] found the effects of UV radiation on PVC pipe results in a change on the pipe’s surface color and a reduction in impact strength. Additionally, the effects are limited to only the surface area that is exposed to the sun. Other properties such as tensile strength and modulus of elasticity are not adversely affected. The resulting radiation effects on PVC pipe is only a penetration of .001 to .003, extremely shallow depths. If using PVC pipe for outdoor use, such as above-ground irrigation pipe, a special additive similar to those used in PVC house siding effectively prevents significant UV degradation. Rutile titanium dioxide is a common inhibitive additive used in PVC water and sewer pipe in North America to reduce the impact of UV radiation. Furthermore, paint coatings or wrappings are effective in the protection against UV Radiation. The most common method of protection of PVC pipe is the utilization of painting with a latex (water based) paint. Preparation of the
