Ultraviolet (UV) absorbers are used to limit the harmful effects of UV rays in polymers. They help enhance the stability, performance, and durability of materials such as plastic, wood, and polymers, by absorbing ultraviolet rays. Ultraviolet (UV) absorbers find application in sealants, adhesives, automotive, construction, and agriculture for ultraviolet protection. These absorbers help protect the material by converting absorbed rays into low-impact heat and energy through chemical reactions. Ultraviolet (UV) absorbers are categorized by chemical class, for example, triazines, benzophenones, and benzotriazoles.
Each class has its own characteristics. For instance, triazine and benzophenone-types absorb more strongly in the short wavelength UV-B region than the benzotriazole-types. Ultraviolet (UV) absorbers transform UV light into low-energy electrical potential, protecting materials from damage caused by UV radiation. Ultraviolet absorbing materials are used in a variety of applications such as plastics and polymers. It is a crucial step in material protection. In most cases, UV absorbers are formulated with other protecting components to enhance their overall effectiveness and tolerance to UV radiation.
There is an increasing demand for ultraviolet (UV) absorbers in various end-use industries such as automotive and construction. UV absorbers are extensively used in automotive coatings and plastics. Thus, with the rapid growth of the automotive and construction industry (especially in India, China, and the U.S.), the demand for ultraviolet (UV) absorbers is also increasing. For example, according to India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), India, China, and the U.S. are expected to account for almost 60% of all global growth in the construction sector by 2025. While India is expected to become the third-largest construction market in the world by 2025.
Ultraviolet (UV) absorbers transmit the absorbed energy by radiating the heat and protect the material. However, the amount of UV absorber needed depends on its concentration and the surface's thickness.