Study on the similarity of photo and corona aging in nano-ZnO/LDPE composite

The similarity of photo aging and corona aging in nano-ZnO/LDPE composite was investigated using the Fourier Transformed Infra-red spectra (FTIR). The composite of nano-ZnO/LDPE was prepared via the method of double-solution mixture. The samples were aged by photo and corona respectively for different time. The FTIR spectra were measured and the results showed that the spectra of samples aged by photo and corona have some similarities. A proper explanation was given according to the photo-degradation theory and the electroluminescence theory of polyethylene. Although photo and corona aging have different free radical initiation mechanism, the subsequent course of degradation of polymer is essentially the same, both leading to an increase in trap density and the enhancement of energy levels inside polymers.